The Spotted Turtle-Dove (Streptopelia chinensis) is a medium-sized bird found on the eastern coast of Australia, and a few colonies in southern and western Australia. It is also called Mountain Dove, Pearl-Necked Dove, or Lace-Necked Dove.

The Spotted Turtle-Dove has a pale grey head, with a white-spotted black patch on the back of its neck. Its chest is pinkish-grey. Its wings, back, and tail are mottled dark and light brown. It has a long tail that has grey undertail feathers and tipped white outer tail feathers.

Spotted Turtle-Dove

It grows to 28-32 centimetres (11-12.5 inches) tall.

The Spotted Turtle is seen pairs or parties. It feeds on the ground

It prefers urban areas, such as parks and gardens, as well as open woodlands and forests.

Spotted Turtle-Dove

Spotted Turtle-Dove

Spotted Turtle-Dove

Spotted Turtle-Dove

Spotted Turtle-Dove

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM