Streptopelia decaocto - Collared Dove
Feather characters. Barbules are rather long (1.9-2.5 mm). Generally barbules are unpigmented, although in some cases some lightly stippled pigment may be seen in basal nodes and internodes. Quadrilobed nodes are located on proximal end of the barbules, abruptly decreasing in size towards distal end (approximately 16 per mm). On distal end these nodal structures are too small to qualify as nodes and may be hard to discern. Villi are absent and internodes are straight. Minute prongs are present on distal end of barbules and on both sides of the pennulum.
Field characters. Size 32 cm. Weight: male 152 g (110-184), female 146 g (113-176) (Dunning, 1993). Differs from Turtle Dove in slightly larger size, narrow black half-collar at the back of neck and different colour of body. Upperparts drab, almost uniform pale grey-brown; in flight shoulders blue-grey; head and underparts paler and greyer, with a slight tinge of vinous-pink, especially on breast of male. Tail shows white in outer feathers if spread; seen from below, at rest or in flight, has a distinctive pattern with the distal half white and basal half dark. Eyes red.
Voice. Song a deep three-syllabic "coo-coo-cuk", with emphasis on second note. In flight a peculiar, nasal sound.
Distribution. Invaded the region from 1940s onwards; has recently invaded Spain. Generally a common breeding bird now. Map: see MapIt.
Habitat. In open woodland, parks, and gardens, usually near human settlements. Also in cities.
Food. Mainly seeds and green vegetable matter; some invertebrates.