Spotted Dove
Spilopelia chinensis
Also known as: Spotted Turtle Dove, Eastern Spotted Dove, Lace-necked Dove
The Spotted Dove (*Spilopelia chinensis*) is a medium-sized, long-tailed dove native to southern and southeastern Asia, easily recognised by the broad black collar patterned with white spots on the back and sides of its neck. Its soft, vinous-pink underparts and brown, pale-flecked back blend into gardens, farmland and city parks, where it feeds quietly on the ground. Introduced to Australia, New Zealand, the United States and elsewhere, it has become a familiar sight in suburbs and its gentle, rolling coo is a common backdrop to warm mornings.
Spotted Dove Quick Facts
Frequently Asked Questions About the Spotted Dove
The Spotted Dove is largely resident and is associated with Gardens, farmland, parks, open woodland in South and Southeast Asia, introduced elsewhere.
The Spotted Dove can be found in South and Southeast Asia, introduced elsewhere and is most often associated with Gardens, farmland, parks, open woodland.
The Spotted Dove feeds on Seeds, grain, fallen fruit and is considered a granivore.
The Spotted Dove is currently listed as Least Concern, with a stable population trend. It faces few serious threats, though it is sometimes hunted or trapped locally and can be displaced by other introduced doves.
The Spotted Dove is usually pairs/small flocks.
The Spotted Dove is typically diurnal.
The main threats facing the Spotted Dove include Local hunting and trapping, Predation by cats and birds of prey, and Competition from other introduced doves.
The Spotted Dove population trend is currently stable.
Well-known places to look for the Spotted Dove include Singapore parks and gardens, Sydney and Melbourne suburbs, and Southern California.
Natural predators of the Spotted Dove include Cats, Birds of prey, and Snakes (on eggs/nestlings).
A familiar garden bird across Asia, its soft cooing features in local folklore and it is sometimes kept as a cage bird.
The Spotted Dove is part of the Columbidae family and a Columbiformes order.
The Spotted Dove weighs about 0.15 kg, stands around 30 cm tall, reaches about 30 cm in length, and has a wingspan of about 47 cm.
The Spotted Dove can reach speeds of around 50 km/h.
