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