Diamond Dove – Special sighting in the Blue Mountains Australia

Diamond Doves are typically found in arid or semi-arid grassland savanna and low open woodland, where they are seen in pairs, small parties or flocks of 20-30 (HANZAB). They are also partial to open riparian woodland. Sandhills, sandplains, sandy deserts and rocky outcrops are other possible habitats, with the proviso being access to water. Diamond Doves drink daily and use a variety of water sources, such as natural waterholes, dams, bores and drainage lines. (Note that the bird here was close to seepage and a short flight from a small creek.)

Although the doves can be present all year in some locations, their population and breeding depend on rain (HANZAB). Generally they are described as nomadic or dispersive. Movements within their usual range can be seasonal and driven by water and food availability. However, if resources become scarce due to a drying trend or drought, then the doves will seek them elsewhere, such as around the Great Dividing Range. When this occurs in significant numbers, it’s called an irruption. Moreover, several other bird species find their way to less typical locations.

Credits: Filmed by Darren Broughton. Text by Thalia Broughton. Special thanks to Mick Roderick for informative discussions about this sighting.

[Dave-Rough-Diamond-Dunn]

I read in an old bird book about how there were fears that the introduced Lace Necked Doves were replacing Diamond Doves in Adelaide and surrounds, that definitely happened, I'm 54, and never seen one in Adelaide or the Adelaide Hills, only in the mid north.
Interestingly, I live in Renmark now, and I've only seen one Lace Necked Dove. It's always by itself in an alleyway across from my house, pretty much every time I drive down the alley. I did see a young Crested Dove with a black chest last year, I wonder if it's cross bred with the Lace Neck. 🤔

[NeedsMoreBirds]

These guys are tiny. Even smaller than peaceful doves I think?

[wingsanddaydreams]

What a sweet dove! Thank you for sharing! New subscriber here ✨