Spotted Dove

Spotted Dove

Scientific Name: Spilopelia chinensis

Malay Name: Tekukur Jerum Timur

Chinese Name: 珠颈斑鸠

Range: Found from the Indian subcontinent to southern China and Southeast Asia

Taxonomy: Polytypic. Subspecies are: suratensis, ceylonensis, tigrina, chinensis, hainana.

Size: 30-31 cm

Identification: Adult has greyish-brown upperparts with blackish streaks on upperwings, prominent black collar with white spots at back of neck, greyish face and pale vinous-pink underparts. Juvenile looks darker and has less obvious collar at back of neck.

Similar looking species: Oriental Turtle Dove

Habitat: Open habitats like grasslands, reclaimed lands and urban areas.

Behaviour/Ecology: Forages mostly on the ground for grass seeds and grains.

Local Status: Very common resident

Conservation Status: Least Concern (BirdLife International 2016)

Location: Lorong Halus, Kranji Marsh, Tuas South, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Bidadari and any suitable patch of habitat.

References:

BirdLife International. (2016). Spilopelia chinensis. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-3.RLTS.T60482887A95160992.en. Accessed on 1 January 2023

Robson, C. (2014). Field guide to the birds of South-East Asia (Second Edition). Bloomsbury Publishing, London.

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