Wildlife

Wild Turtle Dove UK Recovery Efforts

Conservation work to reverse the catastrophic decline of turtle doves in the UK, addressing both UK and African causes.

Key Facts

Turtle dove populations have declined by 98% in the UK since 1970
UK decline is driven by loss of seed-rich farmland habitat and food shortage
Migration brings additional risks from hunting in Mediterranean countries
Operation Turtle Dove has identified key habitat and management requirements
Ramping weed provision and supplementary seed feeding support nesting pairs

Welfare Considerations

Turtle doves face a welfare crisis from multiple directions - starvation on UK farmland, hunting pressure during migration, and drought at African wintering grounds. Each individual faces severe survival challenges created by human activities.

What You Can Do

Create or support seed-rich habitat for turtle doves in farmland areas
Advocate against hunting of migratory birds during migration periods
Support Operation Turtle Dove and donate to their farmland habitat work