Pigeons & Doves in Essex

5 species matching this filter.

All birds in EssexView family page

Essex is home to 5 species of pigeons and doves, ranging from the ubiquitous Woodpigeon to the increasingly rare European Turtle-dove. The county's mix of farmland, woodland, and coastal habitats provides vital breeding and feeding grounds for these birds, with Essex being one of the last strongholds in Britain for the declining Turtle-dove. Whether in urban gardens or rural hedgerows, pigeons and doves are a familiar and important part of Essex's birdlife.

European Turtle-dove
European Turtle-doveSmallest · 26cm
to
Woodpigeon
WoodpigeonLargest · 45cm
Ranges from the European Turtle-dove (26cm) to the Woodpigeon (45cm)4 year-round residents
Eurasian Collared Dove

Eurasian Collared Dove

Streptopelia decaoctoLC

A common resident found in gardens, farms, and villages across Essex year-round. Its monotonous call is a familiar sound.

Year-round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
European Turtle-dove

European Turtle-dove

Streptopelia turturVU

A declining summer breeder arriving in April, favouring hedgerows and woodland edges. Essex remains one of its last strongholds in Britain.

Apr–Sep

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Rock Dove

Rock Dove

Columba liviaLC

Abundant year-round in towns and cities across Essex. Feral populations thrive alongside the truly wild birds found on coastal cliffs.

Year-round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Stock Dove

Stock Dove

Columba oenasLC

A common resident breeding in parkland, mature trees, and farmland. Often overlooked alongside the abundant Woodpigeon.

Year-round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Woodpigeon

Woodpigeon

Columba palumbusLC

An abundant year-round resident found in virtually every habitat from dense woodland to suburban gardens. Large flocks gather on arable fields in autumn.

Year-round

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

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