Spotted Dove
An introduced dove in Hawaii and parts of Southern California that is best recorded and observed without dedicated feeding or nesting support.
By Birdly Yard Editorial TeamReviewed Updated
Local season
Months with a state-level historical signal for this species.
Status
Backyard reports
Look for it
Look in gardens, parks, neighborhoods, farms, open woodland, and suburban ground cover of established introduced populations.
Food
Seeds and berries taken primarily from the ground.
Nesting
Natural nesting guidance
Spotted Dove habitat
Focus planting and resources on native birds rather than providing extra food, dense nesting cover, or water to build dove numbers.
Spotted Dove diet and food
Seeds and berries taken primarily from the ground.
Do not provide seed specifically for this introduced dove; keep spills and food waste cleaned up around ordinary feeders.
Spotted Dove nesting and breeding
Builds a shallow twig cup on a sheltered limb in dense foliage; do not add boxes or disturb an occupied nest.
Spotted Dove behavior and where to look
Usually occurs in pairs or small groups, walks on the ground, and flushes nearly vertically with noisy wingbeats.
Photography
Observe from a path or patio without feeding, approaching a nest, or using calls to pull birds from cover.
What to avoid
Do not scatter seed for it or let ground food accumulate in areas where an introduced population is established.
Continue exploring
Explore related bird guides
Compare food, habitat and nesting. Local seasonal records vary by species.
