Bird Identifier
Collared Dove
Order: Columbiformes, Family: Columbidae
Identified from audio

Collared Dove

Streptopelia decaocto

A medium-sized slender dove with a gentle demeanor, known for rapid direct flight and a characteristic cooing song.

Explore Collared Dove in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own birds.

Get a report just like this from any photo or call, free.

Plumage & appearance

Pale grey-buff to pinkish-grey plumage with a distinctive black half-collar edged with white on the back of the neck; reddish eyes and short pinkish legs.

Key field marks

Black neck collar bordered with white, pale grey-buff body, square-tipped tail with white outer feathers.

Size & weight

Length: 31-34 cm, Wingspan: 47-55 cm, Weight: 125-240 g

Voice — call & song

A rhythmic, three-note cooing sound ('hoo-hoo-hoo') with emphasis on the middle note, repeated frequently.

Diet & foraging

Primarily seeds, grains, and occasionally insects or small fruits.

Habitat

Urban and suburban areas, agricultural lands, parks, and open woodlands.

Migration & movement

Resident and partially migratory, often expanding its range naturally.

Nesting & breeding

Constructs a flimsy stick nest in trees or on buildings, laying two white eggs per clutch.

Similar species

Turtle Dove and Mourning Dove; distinguished by size, lack of distinct wing patterns, and the prominent neck collar.

Ecological significance

Acts as a seed disperser and plays a role in local food webs, though it can compete with native species in introduced ranges.

Conservation status

Least Concern

Observation tips

Look for them perched on utility wires, rooftops, or foraging on lawns and around bird feeders in urban and suburban areas.

Interesting facts

The Collared Dove has experienced one of the most remarkable natural range expansions of any bird species, spreading across Europe and North America from Asia over the past century.