How to identify the Laughing Dove

To correctly identify the Laughing Dove (Streptopelia senegalensis), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

25-27 cm

Wingspan

38-43 cm

Weight

80-170 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Overall plumage is a pale rufous-pink to vinous-pink on the head, neck, and underparts, fading to whitish on the belly. The back, wings, and rump are a dull brown to grey-brown. The most distinctive feature is a finely spotted, black-and-white or black-and-rufous 'necklace' or collar on the hindneck and sides of the neck. The primary flight feathers are dark brown, contrasting with the paler wing coverts. The outer tail feathers are tipped with white, visible in flight.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Slender, dark grey to blackish beak, relatively short.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown, surrounded by a narrow, pale grey or whitish orbital ring.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dull reddish-purple to dark red.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The finely spotted 'necklace' on the hindneck is the most reliable field mark. Its small size, long tail, and characteristic call also aid identification.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller overall, with less distinct neck spotting, a greyer head, and a less prominent vinous wash. The neck spots may be absent or appear as faint dusky markings. The orbital ring may be less defined.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage may appear slightly brighter or duller depending on wear and tear.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are generally monomorphic in plumage, though males may be slightly larger and have a more intense vinous wash on the head and breast during breeding season.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Look for a small, slender dove with a relatively long tail, smaller than most other doves in its range.
• Neck Pattern. The most distinctive feature is the finely spotted black-and-white or black-and-rufous 'necklace' on the hindneck and sides of the neck. This is unique among similar doves.
• Plumage Color. Note the pale rufous-pink to vinous-pink on the head, neck, and underparts, contrasting with the duller brown back and wings.
• Tail Markings. Observe the white tips on the outer tail feathers, especially visible when the bird takes flight or lands.
• Vocalization. Listen for its characteristic 'coo-coo-croo-coo' call, which sounds like a gentle, bubbling laugh. This is often the first clue to its presence.

Explore the Laughing Dove