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Birds by name

Turtle dove

Conservation status: Red

The turtle dove is a dainty dove, smaller and darker than the collared dove and slightly larger than a blackbird. Its upperparts are distinctively mottled with chestnut and black and its black tail has a white edge.

The gentle purr of the turtle dove is an evocative sound of summer, but has become increasingly rare following rapid and sustained population declines. One cause of the decline is thought to be lack of seed and grain as food during the breeding season, resulting in a much shorter breeder season with fewer nesting attempts. The species is now included on the Red List of conservation concern.

Overview

Latin name

Streptopelia turtur

Family

Pigeons and doves (Columbidae)

Where to see them

It is mainly a bird of southern and eastern England, although it does reach as far as Wales. Best looked for in woodland edges, hedgerows and open land with scattered bushes.

When to see them

Arrives in late April and May, leaving again between July and September.

What they eat

Seeds

Population

EuropeUK breeding*UK wintering*UK passage*
-44,000 territories--

* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn.

Distribution

Key

Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.

Illustrations

Audio

Niels Krabbe, Xeno-canto

Characteristics

Turtle dove

Turtle dove
  • Size: between blackbird-pigeon
  • Feather colours: brown, black, white, blue, orange, grey, cream/buff, pink/purple
  • Beak colours: black/dark grey
  • Beak length: medium
  • Beak thickness: medium
  • Leg colour: brown, pink/flesh, red
  • Behaviour: part of flock, on ground, bird walks/runs on the ground

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