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Collared Dove, Identification, Habitat and Food
By Ark Wildlife
20th August 2013
Identification
Length: 28cm
Resembles a small slender Wood pigeon but their plumage is more sober in colouration. They are a grey-brown colour with a tinge of pink below, particularly on the breast. The wing tips are a grey-brown colour. The distinctive marking of the Collard Dove is the black half collar around the neck. The primary coverts of a Collard Dove are grey-blue. Their bills are grey-black and they have dark pink legs.
Call
Male’s call is a persistent tri syllabic ‘coo-roo-coo-coockoo’ which is reminiscent of the Wood pigeon’s call, the accent is on the middle syllable.
Reproduction
Breeding begins in March, but may be prolonged until September. They build flat nests of twigs mainly on conifers but also on other trees, or very occasionally on the ledge of a building. Two drab yellow-white eggs are laid. The Collard Dove may breed twice or more (up to five times). Both parents incubate the eggs for approximately fifteen days.
Habitat
Lives in regions with scattered trees and bushes, mainly in cultivated or urban areas.
Natural Food
Mainly grain and seeds, also fruits and berries.
Where to Feed
Feeders – Not suitable
Table – Open topped
Ground – Scatter food in the open