The Sunda collared dove, sometimes referred to as the island collared dove, Javanese turtle dove, Javanese collared dove, or Indonesian collared dove, is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. Sometimes confused with the Eurasian collared dove which is very similar in appearance, the Sunda collared dove is a small to medium-sized bird, native to the tropical and subtropical islands of Indonesia.
Region
Sunda Islands, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Found across parts of the Greater and Lesser Sunda Islands, especially in lowland and coastal areas near human habitation. It occupies open country, agricultural fields, village gardens, mangroves, and edges of secondary forest. The species forages mostly on the ground but roosts and nests in trees, palms, and man-made structures. It adapts well to mosaic landscapes where scattered trees, hedges, and open patches provide feeding and nesting opportunities.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Often confused with the Eurasian collared dove, the Sunda collared dove is paler and slightly sandier in tone with a neat black-and-white nuchal collar. It is an island specialist, native to the Sunda Islands of Indonesia, where it frequents coastal settlements, open woodland, and agricultural areas. Its soft, repeated three-part coo carries far at dawn and dusk. As with many doves, it builds a flimsy stick platform and may breed multiple times in a year.
Temperament
wary but adaptable, often tame around villages
Flight Pattern
strong and direct with rapid wingbeats; occasional wing-claps on takeoff
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups; loose flocks may form at rich food sources. Builds a flimsy stick platform nest in trees, palms, or on ledges. Clutch is usually 1–2 eggs, with both parents incubating and feeding the young. Breeding can occur year-round in the tropics, often peaking after rains.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, rhythmic three-part coo repeated steadily, often rendered as coo-COO-coo. Calls are most frequent at dawn and dusk and can carry across open areas.