The stock dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae, the doves and pigeons. It is widely distributed in the western Palearctic, north to central Scandinavia and south to northwest Africa. Western and southern populations are resident, while northeastern populations are migratory to avoid the colder winters there. It is the type species of the genus Columba.
Region
Western Palearctic
Typical Environment
Occurs across much of Europe, western Asia, and northwest Africa. Prefers mature woodland edges, parks, orchards, and farmland with access to tree cavities or cliffs for nesting. It forages in open fields, stubble, and grasslands, often near hedgerows. Avoids dense urban centers more than feral pigeons but can be found in large parks. In coastal regions it may nest in dunes and quarries where cavities are available.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The stock dove is a cavity-nesting pigeon, often using old woodpecker holes or even rabbit burrows—unusual among pigeons. It is frequently confused with the larger woodpigeon, but lacks the latter’s white neck and wing patches. Outside the breeding season it gathers in flocks and may mix with other pigeons on farmland. Its soft, rolling hoots are more subdued and shorter than a woodpigeon’s.
Pair of stock doves in courtship display outside their nest hole
Columba oenas egg
Temperament
wary but moderately social
Flight Pattern
strong direct flier with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically forms monogamous pairs that nest in cavities in trees, cliffs, or rabbit burrows. Clutches usually consist of two eggs; pairs may raise multiple broods in a season. Outside breeding, birds feed in small to medium flocks and may join mixed pigeon flocks on farmland.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A soft, rolling series of hoots, often rendered as a gentle, repeated hoo-oo. Phrases are short and subdued, lacking the emphatic rhythm of the woodpigeon.
