Order: Columbiformes; Family: Columbidae
Identified from audio
Eurasian Collared-Dove
Streptopelia decaocto
A medium-sized dove with a slim profile and long, squared tail. Known for its persistent three-syllable cooing and bold presence in suburban areas.
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Plumage & appearance
Chalky tan to buffy-gray overall; distinctive narrow black crescent (collar) on the hindneck. Primary feathers are darker. Underparts are slightly lighter.
Key field marks
Black neck ring, square-tipped tail with white corners, and reddish eyes.
Size & weight
Length: 11.4–13.0 in (29–33 cm); Wingspan: 18.9–20.5 in (48–52 cm); Weight: 4.4–8.5 oz (125–240 g)
Voice — call & song
The recording features the classic rhythmic, three-syllable 'koo-KOO-kook' song, with the middle syllable being the longest and most stressed.
Diet & foraging
Primarily seeds and grains; occasionally insects and berries.
Habitat
Urban areas, suburbs, farmlands, and parks.
Migration & movement
Resident (Non-migratory); highly successful at colonizing new territories.
Nesting & breeding
Builds a flimsy platform of sticks in trees or on man-made structures; produces multiple broods per year (3–6).
Similar species
Mourning Dove (thinner, pointed tail, no neck collar) and Ringed Turtle-Dove (lighter plumage, different call).
Ecological significance
Disperses seeds through its diet; serves as a significant prey species for hawks and falcons in urban/suburban environments.
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN)
Observation tips
Look for them on telephone wires, fences, and bird feeders. They are rarely found in deep forests, preferring human habitation.
Interesting facts
This species colonized North America in the 1980s after escaping from a pet shop in the Bahamas during a mid-1970s burglary.
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