Key information
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.
What they eat:
Seeds.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 26-28cm
- Wingspan:
- 47-53cm
- Weight:
- 130-180g
Population:
- UK breeding:
- 14,000 territories
Identifying features:
Turtle dove
