Eurasian collared dove

Scientific name: Streptopelia decaocto

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

Slender dove with pale grey-brown plumage and a distinctive narrow black collar on the nape of the neck. Eyes are dark red to orange-red; the tail is relatively long and square-ended; sexes are similar in plumage but males may appear slightly larger.

Size and weight

Adults typically weigh 150–240 g, with body length of 26–29 cm. Males average slightly heavier than females.

Habitat

Eurasian collared doves favour open and semi-open landscapes including agricultural areas, parks, gardens, and scrubland. They are highly adaptable to human-modified environments and typically inhabit lowland to moderate elevations.

Distribution

Originally native to the Indian subcontinent and Asia Minor, now widespread across Europe and introduced regions. Strongly associated with human settlements and cultivated land within its range.

Diet

Feeds primarily on seeds from cultivated crops, weeds, and scattered grain, with occasional consumption of berries and small invertebrates; foraging intensity increases in late summer and autumn.

Behaviour

Diurnal and crepuscular; highly vocal with a distinctive three-note cooing call. Generally social and gregarious, often seen in small flocks; flight is swift and direct with audible wing-claps.

Hunting tips

Glass feeding areas during dawn and dusk when birds move between roosts and feeding sites. Approach from downwind using natural cover; doves flush readily but predictably. Effective from concealed positions near fields, water sources, or traditional perching posts; listen for characteristic calls to locate flocks.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 14 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.