Feral Animals of the Northern Territory

Spotted Turtle-Dove

Family: Columbidae

Scientific names: Steptopelia chinensis

Other common names: Spotted dove, Turtle dove, Feral dove

Background

The spotted turtle-dove 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 turtle-dove is located in Alice Springs. 

Feeding

Spotted turtle-doves are common in human inhabited areas, where they can be observed in parks, gardens and in agricultural areas. In their natural habitat, spotted turtle-doves feed on grains and seeds, but in their introduced range, they feed on scraps and commercial foods that can be obtained from chicken pens and people’s backyards.

Breeding

Spotted turtle-doves breed at any time of the year, but most activity is between July and January.

Impacts

Spotted turtle-doves are of concern in the Northern Territory because they compete with native species for food and habitat. Spotted turtle-doves may also carry parasites and disease which may threaten native populations of birds.  

What You Can do

If you have a problem with spotted turtle-doves around your house, you might consider the following options:

• Avoid feeding your pets outside, as this attracts spotted turtle-doves into your yard, where they are provided with a free meal.
• Always cover chicken pens to prevent access to spotted turtle-doves. This discourages them from coming into your yard.

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