African Collared Doves

The African Collared Doves (Streptopelia roseogrisea) is native to Africa, specifically from the arid region south of the Sahara. Its range extends in a band right across the continent, and into southern Arabia. Although it lives in arid lands, it is found around water sources.

It is reported to have been introduced into New Zealand, but it is more likely that the birds there are descended from domestic Barbary Doves.

Further Dove Information

Description:

This bird is typically around 26 cm in length. Its upper body, from shoulders to tail, is a pale grayish brown, though the wing edge has a bluish tinge. Flight feathers are darker, and nearly black. Head, neck and breast are pinkish shading to white on the chin and belly. There is little sexual dimorphism (visual physical differences between the sexes) .

African Collared Dove - mating pair

Similar Species:

The African Collared Dove is the species thought to be the wild ancestor of the domestic Barbary Dove, though some suggest the Eurasian Collared Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) may also have been involved. The African Collared Dove is able to hybridise with the Barbary Dove, and it is thought that the increase in the range of colors of Barbary Doves available that occurred in the later twentieth century was the result of the importation of African Collared Doves into the United States for interbreeding.

Similar Species: African vs. Eurasian Collared Doves (Comparison)

Size:

  • African Collared Dove: At an average of 11″ this dove is smaller than the Eurasian Collared Dove
  • Eurasian Collared Dove: This dover is larger than the African collared Dove, averaging 13″ in length

Longest Wing Feathers (aka Primaries)

Undertail feathers

 
 
 
Photo of author

Gordon Ramel

Gordon is an ecologist with two degrees from Exeter University. He's also a teacher, a poet and the owner of 1,152 books. Oh - and he wrote this website.

We love to hear from our readers. If you have any questions or if you want to get in touch with us, you can find our contact details on our About Us page.

Leave a Comment