Scientific name: Streptopelia decaocto (Frivaldszky, 1838)
Bird group: Pigeons and Doves
Field characters. 32 cm. 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.
Habitat. In open woodland, parks, and gardens, usually near human settlements. Also in cities.
Food. Mainly seeds and green vegetable matter; some invertebrates.