Eurasian Collared Dove

Scientific Name
Streptopelia decaocto
Also Known As
Eurasian Collared-Dove, Collared Dove
Range
All of Florida
Diet
Grain, Seeds, Insects
Life Expectancy
2 - 5 Years
Eurasian Collared Dove

Photo 187171724 © Jorge A. Pérez Torres, CC BY-NC

Eurasian Collared Dove conservation status - Invasive

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Eurasian Collared Doves in Central Florida

The Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto) is an invasive dove species that has rapidly expanded its range across North America over the past few decades. As an adaptable generalist, the Eurasian collared dove thrives in urban and agricultural areas like central Florida.

This comprehensive guide provides identification tips, biology facts, and prevention methods for Eurasian collared doves in central Florida. Read on to learn about Eurasian collared dove habits, reproduction, diet, health risks, signs of infestation, and professional control options if you want to manage their populations.

Appearance and Identification

Eurasian collared doves can be identified by their distinct physical characteristics

Adult Eurasian Collared Doves

Photo 157827637 © Jorge A. Pérez Torres, CC BY-NC

Adult Eurasian Collared Doves

  • Size: Adults reach 25-30 cm in length with a wingspan around 47-55 cm. Body mass ranges from 125-240 grams.
  • Plumage: Adults have distinctive pale gray heads, rufous primaries, white tips on the tails, and black half-collars on the nape. The iris is red.
  • Bill: The bill is black and slender.
  • Legs: Legs and feet are red or pinkish red.
Juvenile Eurasian Collared Dove

Photo 478866 © Marcial Reiley, CC BY-NC

Juvenile Eurasian Collared Doves

  • Size: Hatchlings weigh about 14-18 grams and fledge (leave the nest) after 15-19 days, weighing around 50 grams. They reach adult size after 4-6 weeks.
  • Plumage: Juveniles have pale gray down feathers when hatching which transition to immature plumage featuring drab gray-buff body feathers and pale flight feathers. The dark collar is less distinguished.

Eurasian collared doves are larger than native mourning doves and lack the mourning dove’s long tail feathers. They are also lighter in color than introduced rock pigeons. Their black and white collar distinguishes them from other doves when seen up close.

Eurasian Collared Dove Eggs

Photo 66692815 © Massimo Martini, CC BY-NC

Eurasian Collared Doves Eggs

  • Eurasian Collared Dove eggs have a classic oval shape and uniform pale coloration. They lack heavy spotting or markings.
  • Size: Eggs measure about 1.5 inches (38 mm) long by 1.2 inches (30 mm) wide.
  • Shape: A standard oval shape with one end slightly more pointed than the other.
  • Color: Uniform pale white, cream, or pinkish-white without heavy spotting or marking.
  • Shell: The shell has a smooth, slightly glossy texture.
  • Clutch: Collared doves lay 2 eggs per clutch, with consecutive clutches through breeding season.
  • Nest: The eggs are incubated by both parents for 14-18 days in a flimsy platform nest of twigs and debris.

Maturation Rate

Eurasian collared doves develop rapidly due to their high reproductive output. Chicks grow flight feathers and leave the nest just 15-19 days after hatching. They reach adult size within 4-6 weeks but may continue begging from parents for resources.

At two months of age, young Eurasian collared doves can begin breeding and produce their own offspring. Such fast maturation enables exponential population growth and exploitation of diverse habitats.