Robust! That’s what we are!

An Oriental Turtle Dove is addressing his large family

“Did you know, my brothers and sisters, that we are found almost everywhere in the world? In the lands from Europe right across to Japan, and every tropical nation below that, our brethren are there! Isn’t that wonderful? We thrive in snow covered boreal forests, subtropical dry forests, moist lowland forests, shrublands, cities… everywhere! Be proud of your evolutionary heritage my friends, there aren’t many birds that can survive everything that nature throws their way. There’s only one word to describe a species like that… Robust!”

Fun Facts

“Some species go to great lengths to camouflage themselves. Hah! I scoff at them. Look at us for the real success story. Reddish-brown head, slaty grey undertail, scale patterned brown wing feathers, black and white striped patch on the side of the neck… doesn’t really scream camouflage does it? The real secret to flourishing is being unscrupulous. Keep raiding the paddy and wheat fields my brethren! Eat all the grains, cereals, wild seeds, green shoots and herbs you can find. People call us pests, but who cares? Not us, the great and robust Oriental Turtle Dove species!”

Story of the Photo

The Oriental Turtle Dove is quite commonly found around the Mahoora Tented Safari Camp in Yala and Dilum got this beautiful shot of the bird during a morning walk around the camp.