Those pesky doves

Since its introduction in Melbourne in the 1860 or 70s, probably thanks to the Victorian Acclimatization Society, the Spotted Dove has become quite ubiquitous in our region. The Spotted Dove is a native of the Indian subcontinent and South East Asia. The bird was believed to be introduced as a decorative species and for its pleasant ‘cooing’! Apparently, the native birds were ‘…dull and uninteresting’.

Later, Spotted Doves were introduced to Adelaide, Brisbane and Sydney. Even as late as 1990, ten birds were released from an aviary in Alice Springs and their population there has increased rapidly.

The bird is now found in parks, gardens, agricultural regions and woodlands in numerous locations throughout the continent. It has ‘acclimatized’ rather well.

Although not especially aggressive toward other birds, Spotted Doves compete with native pigeons and other species for food sources and nesting locations. They will often go to nest at any time and can have several broods each year. It is really just their numbers that is the problem. 

Spotted Dove (introduced)                Crested Pigeon (native)        Common Bronzewing (native)

The native Noisy Miner and Bell Miner are far worse at driving away other native birds.

Noisy Miner (native)                                             Bell Miner (native)

Spotted Doves are basically seed eaters, taking their food from the ground, frequently in pairs or small flocks. They also take fruits and food scraps, pet food, etc. All pigeons and doves drink by sucking rather than having to scoop water into their bills and throw back their heads as other species do.

So, can you deter Spotted Doves from visiting your yard and displacing native species? Well, not really unless you don’t want any birds at all to visit, because pretty much whatever method is used to deter doves is going to deter other species as well. There are expensive electronic ultrasound devices that claim they can be adjusted to deter a particular species but their efficacy is questionable.

The best suggestion is to make sure you have plenty of native plants in the garden that will attract native birds in spite of the presence of some doves. Spotted Doves tend to prefer open grass areas on which to forage and open midstory or canopy habitat. Grow some dense understory shrubs for the native honeyeaters, wrens and thornbills to enjoy. Don’t leave seed or pet food outside for long periods.

Good luck!