Oriental Turtle Dove

Crying "de de po po"

Scientific name	Streptopelia orientalis
English name	Oriental Turtle Dove
Japanese name	Kijibato
Classification	Aves
Classification details	Columbiformes Columbidae
Full length	about 33cm
Distribution	Eastern Eurasia

Characteristics

A pigeon that is characterized by a cry called "de de po po". It is called Turtle Dove because its scale-like wings are likened to a pheasant. There is also a pattern at the base of the neck. The whole body is plain gray. The wings are brown. The iris is reddish.

Another name is Yamabato. This is because they used to live in mountains, but now they are not afraid of humans and can even see human settlements.

Calls

The chirping is the repetition of "Dede poppo" that everyone has heard. It's pretty loud and sticks in my ears.

Ecology

Widely inhabits from mountains to plains. They are omnivores and eat pretty much anything, including plant seeds and insects. They often move in pairs, and sometimes two perch on a power line. It is the male that chirps with a characteristic voice.

Breeds by constructing nests of twigs not only on trees but also on man-made structures. Eggs are laid and hatch in about 15 days, and leave the nest in about 15 days.

Habitat

I photographed Yamabato in Katakura Castle Site Park, Hachioji City.Yamabato is quite courageous, and when it is quietly chasing other wild birds, it does not run away even if it gets very close. It's not that they're unaware of humans, but it gives the impression that they're probably sitting still, assuming they won't harm them.

When I hear a male singing on a summer morning, I can't help but feel that it's summer.