DRE PEST CONTROL BLOG

Turtle doves are in decline

09/7/2018

Turtle doves are the fastest-declining bird in the UK. There are serious concerns the species could soon disappear from the UK entirely. Factors behind this decline are thought to include changes in agricultural practices limiting food availability and safe nesting sites, plus increased hunting as the birds cross the Mediterranean on migration.

 

 

The RSPB's Operation Turtle Dove programme aims to reverse that by building on research throughout their migratory route and establishing feeding habitats throughout their core breeding range by working with farmers and landowners.

 

Turtle doves arrive in the UK in late April and May and occupy farmland and open woodland in the south and east of England. After breeding, they fly south to warmer climes from late August to September. Turtle doves are ecologically unique in the UK as our only migratory dove species and face a range of threats across their flyway including habitat loss on wintering and breeding grounds, hunting and disease. 

 

Consveration and protecting our natural habitat is at the heart of our values. Our pest management services are designed to help create safe, healthy and thriving enviroments for all animals, birds and insects co-habit, while also helping our clients live in harmony with common pests in the UK.