Spotted Dove look-alikes
Spilopelia chinensis
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Spotted Dove. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Eurasian Collared-Dove
Streptopelia decaocto
Key differences
The Eurasian Collared-Dove is larger, paler, and has a solid black half-collar on the hindneck, lacking the white spots of the Spotted Dove. Its call is a distinctive three-note 'hoo-HOO-hoo' rather than the Spotted Dove's 'coo-CROO-croo'.
Laughing Dove
Spilopelia senegalensis
Key differences
The Laughing Dove is smaller and has a rufous-pink head and underparts, with a finely spotted rufous patch on the breast and sides of the neck, not a black-and-white checkered patch. Its back is unscaled, and its tail is shorter. Its call is a distinctive 'hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'coo-coo-coo-coo-coo' that sounds like laughter.
Peaceful Dove
Geopelia placida
Key differences
The Peaceful Dove (found in Australia and New Guinea) is smaller and has fine black barring on the neck and breast, rather than the distinct spotted patch. Its underparts are whiter, and its call is a higher-pitched 'doo-doo-doo'.
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