Turtle Dove numbers in Western Europe increase by 40%
New figures show the number of birds breeding as a whole in Western Europe has increased by 615,000 breeding pairs since 2021.
Operation Turtle Dove at Groundswell 2025
Our Community Projects Officer, Matt Horsham, reflects on a successful two days at the annual regenerative farming festival.
From a symbol of farm wildlife decline...
...to a flagship for it's recovery. Find out why Turtle Doves can lead the way in restoring farm wildlife.
Turtle Doves (Streptopelia turtur) have declined dramatically in the UK and reduced almost everywhere else in their European range.
However, we now know the key problems faced by Turtle Doves and what conservation action needs to be taken, and Operation Turtle Dove is optimistic that we can reverse the fortunes of this enigmatic and culturally significant bird.
You can play a part in their recovery.
Blog: Turtle Dove Talk
More good news on Turtle Dove recovery in Western Europe – a 40% increase on 2021 numbers!
March 26, 2025Continue reading
How can I help turtle doves on my land?
Providing habitat is a vital component of turtle dove conservation. If you farm or manage land, there are a number of ways in which you can help support the species and benefit your rural business while doing so. Options can include:
How can I help Turtle Doves at home?
Decisions you make in the garden or the supermarket can help turtle doves in a variety of ways:
How to see a Turtle Dove
Turtle Doves are in the UK – predominantly the east and south east of England -from April to September every year. Here are some ways you can get involved:
Ways you can help
Shop
Your shopping choices can help give turtle doves a home
Create habitat
You can provide turtle doves with habitat they need on your farm or in your garden
Log a sighting
Seen a turtle dove? Log your sighting on Birdtrack
Donate
Your donation will help us to save this iconic bird from extinction in the UK
