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Stock dove

©Gillian Day

Stock dove

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The stock dove looks very much like the woodpigeon, but without the white neck and wing patches. It can be spotted in woodlands and parks, and on farmland in winter, but rarely visits our gardens.

Scientific name

Columba oenas

When to see

January to December

Top facts

Stats

Length: 32-34cm
Wingspan: 66cm
Weight: 300g
Average lifespan: 3 years
Classified in the UK as Amber under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021).

Habitats

About

The stock dove is a medium-sized pigeon that nests in holes in trees and in farm buildings. It is a common bird of woodland edges and parkland during the breeding season and can be seen in small flocks on farmland in winter. Unlike the woodpigeon, it is very rarely found in towns and gardens. It feeds on seeds, leaves, grains, fruit, peas and root crops.

What to look for

The stock dove is smaller than the similar-looking woodpigeon, and slimmer than the feral pigeon. Blue-grey, with a pink chest and an iridescent green patch on its neck, it does not have the white patches on the neck and wings that the woodpigeon has.

Where to find

Widespread, but absent from the north of Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Did you know?

The stock dove will even nest in rabbit warrens. Years ago, in East Anglia, occupied rabbit holes were covered up with crossed sticks so that the parents could feed the chicks, but the chicks could not leave the nest. They were then taken for the pot when they were ready