Laughing Dove

Pinkish-brown head and underparts with a greyish-blue wash on the wings. It has a distinctive black-spotted rufous patch on the sides of the neck (often called a 'necklace'). The tail is long with white outer feathers.

Small size, pinkish-brown hue, long tail with white edges, and the speckled rufous 'necklace' on the side of the neck.

Length: 23–26 cm; Wingspan: 40–45 cm; Weight: 70–120 g

A characteristic low, rhythmic, bubbling 'coo-coo-coo-oo-oo' that sounds like a soft laugh.

Primarily granivorous, eating seeds, grains, and fallen fruits; occasionally consumes small insects.

Dry scrub, farmland, urban parks, and gardens; highly adaptable to human-altered landscapes.

Mainly resident; however, some populations may show nomadic movements in response to food or water availability.

Builds a flimsy platform nest of twigs, usually in a tree, bush, or on ledges of buildings. Typically lays two white eggs.

Spotted Dove (larger, with a black-and-white checkered nape) and Eurasian Collared-Dove (larger, paler, with a black half-collar).

Acts as an important seed disperser in its native habitats and serves as a prey species for various urban and rural raptors.

Least Concern (IUCN); Population is stable and expanding in some regions.

Look for them on the ground in gardens, parks, and city streets. They are quite approachable and often perch on wires or fences in early morning.

This species was introduced to Western Australia in the late 19th century and has since become well-established there. Its name comes from its vocalization which sounds like a chuckle.