SPOTTED DOVE

Spotted Doves are native to Asia but have established populations in several regions of Australia. They are considered an invasive species as they compete with native birds for resources and disrupt local ecosystems.

They are most commonly found in the eastern and northern parts of the country, including Queensland, New South Wales, and the Northern Territory. Being  highly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of habitats and  are often seen in urban and suburban areas, farmlands, woodlands, and open grassy spaces.

Spotted Doves are small, slender doves with a distinctive appearance. They have a pale greyish-brown body with numerous small white spots on their wings and back. They also have a pinkish hue on their underparts.

These doves are generally ground-dwelling birds but can be seen perched in trees and bushes. They are known for their distinctive cooing calls, which are often described as a soft, repetitive “coo-coo-coo.”

 Spotted Doves primarily feed on a diet of seeds, grains, and small insects. They are often seen foraging for food on the ground.

Spotted Doves can breed throughout the year in favorable conditions. They build relatively flimsy nests in trees or shrubs, where they lay one or two eggs. The incubation period is around 13 to 15 days.

It’s important to note that while Spotted Doves are an interesting and commonly seen bird in Australia, they are not native to the continent and can have ecological impacts in certain regions. Wildlife conservation efforts often focus on protecting native species and ecosystems from the potential effects of invasive species like the Spotted Dove.