Streptopelia, which includes collared doves and turtle doves, is a group of 15 bird species in the pigeon and dove family, Columbidae. These birds are native to Africa, Europe, and Asia. They are mainly small to medium-sized and have slim bodies. Their upperparts are usually a buffy brown color, while the underparts are often pinkish-brown. They are recognized by a distinctive black-and-white patch on their necks. These birds make cooing or purring sounds that can be soothing or monotonous.
The genus divides into two groups: the collared doves, which have uniform upperparts and a black half-collar edged with white (11 species), and the turtle doves, which have patterned upperparts and a barred side panel on the neck (4 species). They range in size from the 20-23 cm red-collared dove to the 33-35 cm oriental turtle dove. Most species stay in one area or travel short distances. However, two species, the European and Oriental turtle doves, migrate long distances, breeding in temperate regions and wintering in tropical areas.
In most species, males and females look alike, but in the red-collared dove, males are orange-red with a greyish head, while females are a duller brown. The genus Streptopelia is quite successful, with many species found in various habitats, especially in tropical areas. The Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto) has expanded its range from southeastern Europe to India and has spread across Europe, reaching Great Britain by 1960 and Ireland shortly after. It has also been introduced to the Americas, where it now fills most of North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, and it continues to spread. Some other species, however, are facing challenges, with three species listed by the IUCN as Vulnerable or Near Threatened.
