Turtle Doves

Family

Columbidae

Scientific Name

Streptopelia turtur

Basic Animal Group

Birds

Diet

Granivores

Length

~26-28cm

Weight

~120-180g

Wingspan

~47-53cm

Incubation Period

~14-15 days

Clutch

~1-3 clutches/year
~1-3 eggs/clutch

Origin

Eurasia

Lifespan

~20 years

Characteristics

small-turtle dove

Fun Facts

  1. In Greek mythology the turtle dove was one of the emblems of the goddess Fides.
  2. The turtle doves are mentioned in various songs including ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’.
  3. Normally they continue to breed with the same partner throughout their life (monogamous).
  4. The males attract females by puffing their chest and by bobbing their head up and down.
  5. Within around three weeks after they hatch the chicks will fledge.