The white-winged collared dove or white-winged dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, plantations and urban areas in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia.
Region
Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in eastern Ethiopia, Somalia, and northeastern Kenya, where it inhabits lowland thorn scrub, acacia savanna, and riverine woodland. It readily uses cultivated areas, plantations, and urban edges, especially where water and seed are available. The species is primarily a lowland bird and is most numerous in dry zones with scattered trees and shrubs. Local movements track resources after rains, and birds often concentrate around wells and irrigated fields.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This East African dove is readily recognized by the bold white panels in the wings that flash in flight. It is often confused with the African collared dove, but the conspicuous white in the wings and a cleaner, paler look help separate it. The species frequents dry thorn scrub and farms, often congregating near water points in otherwise arid landscapes.
Temperament
wary but tolerant near settlements
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, larger gatherings forming at water sources and grain-rich sites. Nests are flimsy platforms placed in shrubs or small trees. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, rhythmic series of coos, typically a repeated three-note phrase with the middle note emphasized. Calls include clucking and churring notes when alarmed or during close social interactions.
Plumage
Pale grey-brown overall with a slightly warmer, pinkish wash on the breast; black half-collar on the nape edged pale. Wings show prominent white panels and edging that are especially obvious in flight; tail with pale outer feathers and white tips.
Diet
Primarily consumes seeds and grains from grasses, weeds, and cultivated cereals. It also takes fallen grain around farms and occasionally small buds or fruits. Foraging is mostly on the ground with deliberate walking and frequent pauses to peck.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open scrub, stubble fields, farm tracks, and around watering points and village margins. Will also forage along river edges and beneath scattered acacias where seeds accumulate.
