The European turtle dove is a threatened or vulnerable member of the bird family Columbidae, the doves and pigeons. It breeds over a wide area of the south western Palearctic including north Africa but migrates to northern sub-Saharan Africa to winter.
Region
Western Palearctic
Typical Environment
Breeds across much of Europe, North Africa, and western Asia in open woodlands, farmland with hedgerows, orchards, and scrubby edges. Prefers mosaic landscapes with scattered trees and abundant seed-rich weeds. Avoids dense forests and highly urbanized areas. Winters in the Sahel and other parts of northern sub-Saharan Africa, using acacia savannas and open bushland.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small dove is famed for its soft, purring 'turrr-turrr' song and striking black-and-white neck patch. Populations have declined sharply due to agricultural intensification, loss of weedy field margins, and hunting along migratory flyways. It relies heavily on wild seeds, making it sensitive to herbicide use and habitat simplification.
The Turtle Dove by Sophie Gengembre Anderson
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with quick wingbeats
Social Behavior
Monogamous pairs form on the breeding grounds, where they build flimsy stick nests in low trees or dense hedgerows. Clutches are typically two eggs, with both parents incubating and feeding the young. Outside the breeding season, they gather in small flocks, especially during migration and at feeding or watering sites.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A soft, rolling purr repeated in series, often rendered as 'turrr-turrr' from a perch within foliage. Calls are mellow and carry well over open countryside, contrasting with the harsher calls of larger pigeons.
