Hertfordshire - The Doves having a Laugh!

I was up at stupid o clock this morning to take a relatively short journey to Hertfordshire for the Laughing Dove which has been present at Sandon for around a week.

This species is a breeding resident in Africa and was a regular feature during my birding adventures in Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana and Namibia). I also recorded birds in Tanzania whilst following the Wildebeest and zebra migration through the Serengeti.

They also breed in the Middle East and around India. Laughing Dove has been introduced to Perth and established itself in Western Australia, and originally introduced to the Middle East (inc: Turkey, Israel).

This Dove is small and is a striking mix of pink through the head with cinnamon through the mantle and breast with grey blue forewings. The breast has a diagnostic black speckled necklace which with its plain cinnamon back distinguishes it from Turtle dove.

They are not considered a migratory species but in the words of some information sites can turn up anywhere. They have adapted to gardens and city centres and can be quite tame. It is highly likely it has escaped from a collection but birding does turn up anomalies every once in a while.

I enjoyed my time viewing the bird. I was the only one there for a good hour as I wandered around this peaceful English Village. I hope the residents (who were very birder friendly) are successful in thwarting the proposed wedding venue to be situated in the village!

At least I nailed some pictures which is more than can be said for the Marsh Sandpiper earlier in the week!

Ref: IBC Bird Collection, Wikipedia, Sasol Birds of Southern Africa, Helm Birds of East Africa.