Exotic Animals - Minor Pests
Barbary Dove
Family: Columbidae
Scientific names: Streptopelia risoria
Other common names: Ring-necked Dove, Collared Dove, Feral Dove
Background
The Barbary Dove is believed to be a domesticated form of the African Collared-Dove (Streptopelia rosogrisea). In the Northern Territory, the Barbary Dove is located in Alice Springs. This population is believed to have originated from escaped aviary birds.
Feeding
The Barbary Dove feeds on a variety of seeds.
Breeding
Each brood contains only two eggs, which both parents incubate until the young are ready to leave the nest. The young reach sexual maturity at five months of age. Feral Barbary doves will breed readily with other species.
Impacts
There are concerns about the impacts of Barbary Doves on native doves, as this species will breed readily with other species, leading to decreased genetic diversity.
Barbary doves are also often considered to be a nuisance to householders because of their nesting behaviour and droppings.
What You Can Do
If you have a problem with turtledoves around your house, you might consider the following options:
- Avoid feeding your pets outside, as this attracts turtledoves into your yard, where are provided with a free meal.
- Always cover chicken pens to prevent access to turtledoves. This discourages them from coming into your yard.
