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.
Big step in progress with ending unsustainable hunting of turtle doves
The RSPB’s Carles Carboneras and Guy Anderson report on a major development with turtle dove hunting in Spain.
Managing land for turtle doves
Turtle doves are now making their long southward journeys to sub-Saharan Africa to spend the winter months. They may only have just left. But it’s not too early to start thinking about the things we can all do to provide them with feeding, nesting and drinking sites when they return next spring.
Turtle doves (Streptopelia turtur) are in trouble; they are vulnerable to global extinction (IUCN Red List of Endangered Species). They have suffered a 94% UK population decline since 1995 and a 78% decline across Europe since 1980. At this current rate of change if we don’t help this species scientists calculate that complete UK extinction as a breeding species will be a real possibility.
Operation Turtle Dove has an important and urgent mission to reverse the fortunes of this enigmatic and culturally significant bird. Please help us to save them.
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
