Collared Doves in France
When the Collared Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) is present in France, when it nests, and which native France plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in France
- Resident all year
- Nesting season
- March–September
- Size
- 32 cm, 200 g
- Nest box
- Does not use enclosed boxes
When to expect collared doves in France
The Collared Dove lives in France all year round. Mild in the west and south; hard frosts in the north-east and mountains.
Oceanic in the west, continental in the east, Mediterranean along the south coast and Alpine in the mountains.
Nesting in France
In France the Collared Dove usually nests March–September. Nest site: thin twig platform. Clutches are 2 eggs, incubated for 14–18 days; chicks fledge after 15–19 days, and pairs raise Up to 6 per year.
- The Collared Dove does not use enclosed nest boxes — dense native shrubs and climbers give it nest sites.
- Avoid cutting hedges during the nesting season (roughly March to August) — in the UK, disturbing an active nest is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Native France plants for collared doves
Of the native plants we track for France, these 4 provide food the Collared Dove uses:
Goldfinches extract the seeds from standing heads in autumn and winter.
Seed heads for Goldfinches and a nectar source for insects.
Catkin seed for Siskins and Redpolls; many caterpillars for tit broods.
Cones hold seed that Siskins and Goldfinches feed on all winter.
Feeding in the garden
Seeds and grain.
- Best foods: Seed mix.
- Feeders: Ground tray, Open table.
- Colonised Britain only in 1955 and now nests in most towns.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked
Are collared doves in France all year?
Yes — the Collared Dove is resident in France all year.
When do collared doves nest in France?
Typically March–September. Clutches are 2 eggs, incubated for 14–18 days, with Up to 6 per year.
Which native plants help collared doves in France?
Teasel, Common knapweed, Silver birch, Alder are native to France and provide food or cover the Collared Dove uses.
Collared Doves in other countries
Other garden birds in France
Sources
- Collared Dove — RSPB bird guide
- Collared Dove — BTO BirdFacts
- Atlas des oiseaux de France métropolitaine — LPO
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.