This is one of about 45 Turtle Doves that arrived in the yard one day in mid December 2000. After a while, they all found homes close in the area and sometimes a whole flock will come in to feed, but usually they seem to have spred out in the area so that only about 8 or 9 are seen at one time in the yard; more often just one or two at a time throughout the day. They are ground feeders and use the screen on the ground to get their share of Sunflower Seed. They have never been seen to use any of the above ground feeders. The soft grey of the doves fit their unassuming behaviour and allows them to blend into their surroundings. They blend so well that unless you see one land, it may be difficult to spot it. While always on guard, they are very easy going gentle birds. They are among my favorite. I used to raise the beautiful domesticated Ring-necked Doves; they were very well behaved and very good parents. A front view of another of the Doves, show the well shaped head and full breast.
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