Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

Eurasian Collared-Doves are pale gray-brown doves often seen around U.S. towns, suburbs, and farms. They were introduced through the Bahamas and now live across much of the United States. A black band across the back of the neck and broad white areas at the tail tip help identify them.

Appearance

Appearance: This pale gray-brown dove is about 11–12 in (29–30 cm) long. It has a black band on the back of the neck and broad white areas at the tail tip.
Voice: Its repeated call has three cooing notes.

Look-alikes

Mourning DoveZenaida macroura

A Mourning Dove is smaller and has a pointed tail. The collared-dove has a broader, nearly square tail and a black mark across the back of its neck.

Why they get mixed upBoth are common doves around U.S. neighborhoods.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: towns and suburbs
farms
Range: It is widespread in much of the United States, especially in developed areas, but is less common in the Northeast.
Seasonal presence: It lives in its U.S. range year-round.
When it’s recorded: Recorded year-round, every year
27,169 observations in the US · 10 years · for referenceChoose a state

Behavior

Diet: It picks up seeds and spilled grain on the ground, including millet, wheat, and corn.

Life cycle

Nest: A pair builds a loose platform of twigs in a tree or sometimes on a building.
Clutch size: 1–2 eggs
Incubation: 14–19 days

Conservation

IUCN Red List: LCLeast ConcernLow risk of extinction

8 sources