The Eurasian collared dove, often simply just collared dove, is a dove species native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa. It has also been introduced to Japan, North and Central America, and the islands in the Caribbean.
Region
Europe, Western and Central Asia, and North Africa; introduced in the Americas and Caribbean
Typical Environment
Common in towns, villages, farms, and suburban gardens, often closely associated with human settlements. Occupies open and semi-open habitats including agricultural fields, parklands, and hedgerows, avoiding dense forests and extensive treeless deserts. Frequently nests on buildings, utility structures, and small trees. In introduced ranges it follows similar habitat preferences and is quick to exploit bird feeders and spilled grain.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 4/5
The Eurasian collared dove expanded rapidly across Europe during the 20th century and has successfully colonized many urban and rural areas worldwide. Its three-note cooing song is distinctive and often rendered as coo-COO-coo. A narrow black collar edged with white on the nape is its hallmark field mark. It readily visits backyard feeders and often nests multiple times per year in mild climates.
A pair from Mangaon, Maharashtra, India
Juvenile before collar formation
Juvenile with early collar development
Egg
Temperament
social and fairly tolerant
Flight Pattern
strong direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small groups, forming larger loose flocks outside the breeding season. Monogamous pairs often remain together year-round and may raise multiple broods. Nests are flimsy platforms placed in trees, shrubs, or on human structures.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A repetitive three-syllable cooing, often transcribed as coo-COO-coo, delivered persistently from perches. Also gives harsh, nasal calls in flight or during agitation.
Plumage
Smooth, pale gray-buff overall with slightly darker flight feathers and pale, broad tail with white edges. Underparts can show a faint pinkish wash on the breast. The nape bears a narrow black half-collar bordered with white. Undertail coverts are whitish, contrasting with darker upper tail.
Diet
Primarily consumes seeds and grains, including cereals, weed seeds, and spilled agricultural feed. Will take buds and small fruits when available. Occasionally ingests small invertebrates and grit to aid digestion. Regularly visits bird feeders for mixed seeds and cracked corn.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly on the ground in open areas such as farmyards, roadsides, fields, and lawns. Frequently feeds near human habitation and livestock areas where grain is abundant. Uses perches like wires and roofs between feeding bouts.
