Stock Dove

The Stock Dove, Columba oenas, is a member of the family Columbidae, which encompasses doves and pigeons. This species exhibits a plumage that is less grey than its European counterparts, often adorned with iridescent green or purple patches on the neck and breast, though it lacks the stiffened neck feathers found in other pigeons.

Identification Tips

To distinguish the Stock Dove from other pigeons, note its smaller size and the absence of white markings on the neck and wings that are characteristic of the Common Wood Pigeon. Unlike the Rock Dove, the Stock Dove has a grey rump and incomplete wing bars, making it a unique species to identify in the field.

Habitat

The Stock Dove favors open country and is often found in areas with sparse tree coverage. It is also known to inhabit coastal regions where cliffs provide suitable nesting holes.

Distribution

This species is widely distributed across the western Palearctic and is known to migrate within parts of its European and western Asiatic range.

Behaviour

The Stock Dove is both sociable and gregarious, often seen in the company of Wood Pigeons, especially where food is abundant. Its flight is characterized by regular beats with occasional sharp flicks of the wings. During mating displays, the Stock Dove can be seen walking with an inflated neck and fanned tail along branches.

Song & Calls

The Stock Dove's call is a short, deep "grunting" sound, distinctly different from the cooing of the Common Wood Pigeon. This call has been described as a "roaring" due to its volume.

Breeding

Stock Doves are cavity nesters, often choosing holes in old trees or cliffs. They are double-brooded, requiring two nesting sites for their broods. They have been observed to nest in a variety of locations, including rabbit burrows and ruins, and will use nest boxes if available.

Similar Species

The Stock Dove can be confused with the Rock Dove or feral pigeons, particularly when the latter lack distinctive markings. However, the grey rump and incomplete wing bars of the Stock Dove are key identifiers.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Stock Dove primarily consists of plant material, such as young shoots, seedlings, grains, acorns, and pine seeds. It also consumes berries, figs, cereal grains, beans, peas, and occasionally insects and snails.

Conservation status

The Stock Dove is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, there has been a noted decline in certain regions, such as France. The species is protected under Schedule 2 of the Birds Directive and Annex III of the Berne Convention.