Streptopelia orientalis
The Oriental Turtle Dove, *Streptopelia orientalis*, is a charismatic medium-sized dove, typically measuring 30-35 cm (12-14 in) in length with a wingspan of 50-60 cm (20-24 in) and weighing between 150-250 g (5.3-8.8 oz). Its plumage is a rich, warm rufous-brown on the upperparts, characterized by a striking scaled pattern on the wing coverts and back, contrasting with a greyish head and nape, and a delicate pinkish-purple wash on the breast. A highly distinctive field mark is the broad blac...
Predominantly found in open woodlands, forest edges, scrublands, cultivated agricultural fields, and urban parks, ranging from lowlands up to subalpine zones in mountainous regions.
Primarily granivorous, consuming a diverse array of seeds, grains, and weed seeds, supplemented with berries, small fruits, and occasional invertebrates, foraging mainly on the ground.
Oriental Turtle Doves are primarily diurnal, actively foraging on the ground during the day and roosting communally in trees or dense vegetation at night. Their foraging strategy involves a steady walk, picking up a variety of seeds and grains from the ground. During the breeding season, males es...
The Oriental Turtle Dove boasts an extensive geographic distribution across Asia. Its breeding range stretches from western Siberia and Kazakhstan eastward through Central Asia, encompassing the Himalayas, the northern Indian subcontinent, China, the Korean Peninsula, and the Japanese Archipelago...
Least Concern
- There are six recognized subspecies of the Oriental Turtle Dove, each exhibiting subtle plumage variations and occupying distinct geographical ranges across Asia. - The 'turtle' in its name refers to the distinctive purring or turtling coo it produces, not to the reptile. - Northern populations...