Stock Dove
Columba oenas
The Stock Dove is a medium-sized bird that can be seen in Britain throughout the year, although it is more commonly found in the southern and western regions, with sightings in woodland edges, farmland, and urban parks. It is a relatively uncommon species in Britain, but can be spotted in areas with mature trees and woodland habitats.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Stock Dove in the field.
The Stock Dove can be identified by its grey-brown plumage, lack of white neck patches, and distinctive black neck patch with a purple sheen, as well as its dark eyes and small black bill. Its wings and tail also have a distinctive black band.
The Stock Dove is slightly larger than a Woodpigeon, but smaller than a Crow, with a more compact build.
The male Stock Dove has a grey-brown back, wings, and tail, with a black neck patch that has a purple sheen in the right light, and a pale grey-brown breast and belly.
The female Stock Dove is similar to the male, with no significant differences in plumage.
The Stock Dove's call is a low, mournful "oo-oo-oo" sound, often described as a gentle, soothing cooing.
Stock Doves are ground-foraging birds that feed on seeds, grains, and insects, and can be seen walking on the ground or perched in trees, with a slow and deliberate flight style.
The Stock Dove can be confused with the Woodpigeon, but can be distinguished by its smaller size, lack of white neck patches, and darker grey-brown plumage, as well as its more compact build and distinctive black neck patch.
Quick Facts
Who's spotted this?
Loading...
Recent community sightings
Loading recent sightings...
