Exotic Animals - Minor Pests
Spotted Turtledove
Family: Columbidae
Scientific names: Steptopelia chinensis
Other common names: Spotted dove, Turtle dove, Feral dove
Background
The Spotted Turtledove is native to eastern Asia. It was introduced into Australia in the mid-1800’s and early 1900’s and rapidly became established. It is now common throughout eastern Australia, particularly in major towns and cities in southern and south-western Australia. Within the Northern Territory, the spotted Turtledove is located in Alice Springs.
Feeding
Spotted Turtledoves are common in human inhabited areas, where they can be observed in parks, gardens and in agricultural areas. In their natural habitat, turtledoves feed on grains and seeds, but in their introduced range, they feed on scraps and commercial foods that can be obtained from chicken coops and people’s backyards.
Breeding
Spotted Turtledoves breed at any time of the year, but most activity is between July and January.
Impacts
Spotted Turtledoves are of concern in the Northern Territory because they compete with native species for food and habitat. Turtledoves may also carry parasites and disease which may threaten native populations of birds.
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 they are provided with a free meal.
- Always cover chicken pens to prevent access to turtledoves. This discourages them from coming into your yard.
