European Turtle-Dove
European Turtle-Dove
50
2 weeks ago
The European Turtle Dove is a small, migratory dove known for its distinctive purring song. Its beautiful mottled brown and black plumage, along with black and white striped neck patches, make it a striking bird.
Where to spot
Breeds across Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, migrating to sub-Saharan Africa for the winter. Favors open woodlands, hedgerows, scrubland, and agricultural areas, particularly with water sources nearby.
How to spot
Listen for its continuous, low, vibrating 'turrr-turrr-turrr' call, which is very distinctive. Look for its smaller size compared to other doves, the intricate scale-like pattern on its wings, and the black-and-white striped patch on its neck. It can be quite secretive and best observed near water.
When to spot
Primarily observed during the breeding season from late spring to late summer in its European and Asian range. Migratory periods (spring and autumn) can offer viewing opportunities at stopover sites.
Where to spot
Breeds across Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, migrating to sub-Saharan Africa for the winter. Favors open woodlands, hedgerows, scrubland, and agricultural areas, particularly with water sources nearby.
How to spot
Listen for its continuous, low, vibrating 'turrr-turrr-turrr' call, which is very distinctive. Look for its smaller size compared to other doves, the intricate scale-like pattern on its wings, and the black-and-white striped patch on its neck. It can be quite secretive and best observed near water.
When to spot
Primarily observed during the breeding season from late spring to late summer in its European and Asian range. Migratory periods (spring and autumn) can offer viewing opportunities at stopover sites.
Credits:
Door Juan Emilio from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, España - Tórtola común (Streptopelia turtur)Uploaded by tm, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=27642734
The 'turtle' in its name does not refer to the reptile, but derives from the Latin 'turtur', an onomatopoeic representation of its characteristic purring call.
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