Meet the team
Meet our team of amazing advisors, working with farmers and other land managers to help provide suitable Turtle Dove habitats in southern and eastern England.
Turtle Doves are back – and we’re celebrating some great news
In recent days we've heard from excited colleagues who have spotted their first Turtle Doves of the year - and that's not the only good news we're celebrating. We’re delighted to hear that a temporary moratorium on shooting Turtle Doves along their migration route across Spain, France and Portugal is going to be continued for at least a third year.
Working with farmers to provide seed-rich feeding habitat for Turtle Doves
Mark Nowers, the RSPB’s Turtle Dove Conservation Adviser in Essex, sets out the importance of establishing autumn-sown seed plots for Turtle Doves.
Taking action to save turtle doves
The 2021 Turtle Dove Survey results show that the population of turtle doves in the UK has reached a new low. All is not lost however, as we explain in this blog that showcases how a range of people are taking action to save turtle doves in the UK and on the flyway.
Managing land for turtle doves
Turtle Doves are now arriving back on their breeding grounds in southern and eastern England. We need your help to make sure they find suitable feeding, nesting and drinking sites when they return. Find out how to help Turtle Doves here.
Turtle Doves (Streptopelia turtur) have declined dramatically in the UK and reduced almost everywhere else in their European range.
However, we now know the key problems faced by Turtle Doves and what conservation action needs to be taken, and Operation Turtle Dove is optimistic that we can reverse the fortunes of this enigmatic and culturally significant bird.
You can play a part in their recovery.
Blog: Turtle Dove Talk
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How can I help turtle doves on my land?
Providing habitat is a vital component of turtle dove conservation. If you farm or manage land, there are a number of ways in which you can help support the species and benefit your rural business while doing so. Options can include:
- Countryside Stewardship grants for arable farmland, woodland and semi-natural habitats
- Receive free support and advice from your local Turtle Dove Conservation Adviser about how you can provide habitat for turtle doves on your farm from
- Learn more about supplementary feeding for turtle doves on your land.
How can I help turtle doves at home?
Decisions you make in the garden or the supermarket can help turtle doves in a variety of ways:
How to see a turtle dove
Turtle doves are in the UK – predominantly the east and south east of England -from April to September every year. Here are some ways you can get involved:
Ways you can help
Shop
Your shopping choices can help give turtle doves a home
Create habitat
You can provide turtle doves with habitat they need on your farm or in your garden
Log a sighting
Seen a turtle dove? Log your sighting on Birdtrack
Donate
Your donation will help us to save this iconic bird from extinction in the UK
