Collared Dove
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Systematic (order, family): Columbiformes, Columbidae
Distribution in the country and worldwide: The original distribution for Collared Dove was southeast Asia and the Middle East. The last two centuries has seen the expansion of its range as a result of human settlements to Europe, South Asia, northern Egypt and the Arabian Peninsula. It has also invaded the US and Australia.
In Palestine it is a very common throughout, being found all year round. After breeding it can be found around barns, granaries and fields.
Conservation status: Least Concern
Habitat: Identification (how does it look like): A medium-sized elegant dove with long tail and pale buffy-grey plumage. Neck has a black bar that is bordered by white. In flight tail has white tips and wings are bordered with black.
Behaviour: Usually flies straight with fast wingbeats, although the breeding season sees the males display flight, climbing steeply then descending on stiff wings in a circular motion.
Breeding/mating (season, how and where): Breeding season lasts from March to June. Nest is usually made of a very loose construction of twigs. It is very surprising the eggs stay in the nest and that it supports the weight of the youngsters.
Weight and size: Body length: 29-33cm Weight: 120-235g
Threats and hazards: None. It is expanding fast due to human activities.
Similar species not to be confuse with: Turtle Dove has a rufous scalloped back. Laughing Dove is darker with a purple hue and a whiter belly with no collar.
Cool facts: The scientific name ‘Streptopelia’ derives from two greek words; ‘streptos’ meaning collar and ‘peleia’ meaning dove.