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Key information: The Turtle Dove is a slim dove that is slightly smaller and more colourful than the Collared Dove. In Cyprus, a small number breed during the summer, while many more pass through our island during migration. It has a distinct purring song that is repeated several times. It used to be a common farmland bird in Europe, but now its population is declining mainly due to habitat loss.
Length: 25 – 28cm
Habitat: Farmland, towns and villages, scrub and bushes
When they can be seen: Autumn, spring, summer
What they eat: Seeds
In Cyprus: Can be seen in forested areas, such as Troodos, Paphos and Macheras Forests as well as coastal areas during migration
Status: Passage migrant, migrant breeder
Illustration by Paschalis Dougalis