Abstract
Seldom does an individual remain
active in aviculture without having at
least one pair of what is frequently
incorrectly called '' Ringnecked''
Doves. While the Barbary Dove is
actually a domesticated form of the
African Collared Dove (Streptopelia
roseogrisea), lack of agreement
exists regarding whether the species
should be treated as S. risoria or a
race of S. roseogrisea.
The African Collared Dove inhabits
arid thorn scrub of north Africa.
Feeding upon grass seeds , it consumes
large quantities of berries if
water is not present. Nesting, voice
and display is similar to that of the
domesticated form.
About half the size of the common
feral pigeon, the Barbary Dove has
been propagated, through selective
breeding, in numerous mutations. A
creamy buff color originated from
selectively breeding the recessive
mutation from the wild form . A
white variety is also commonly
encountered as are a variety of other
colors including what is referred to as
" rosy" and " peach ~' Back-crossing
the domesticated form with the wild
form has allowed the wild color to
also become available.
In the wild, the African Collared
Dove nests in trees and bushes often
quite low to the ground. In captivity,
Barbary Doves will lay in any tray,
bowl, open box or even the floor of
their cage! Two white eggs, the first
usually laid in the evening and the
second in the morning, completes
the clutch . The incubation period is
14 days . In the Sudan , breeding
occurs from January to June. In captivity,
breeding continues throughout
the year. Barbary Doves are frequently
used to cross-foster even the
larger pigeons such as Pink Pigeons
and Fruit Doves.
John Pire, a noted Texas dove
breeder, recommends maintaining
them in at least a 2' x 2' cage and provide
a diet including a good pigeon
mix, fresh vegetables, black-eyed
peas and dog food. John mentioned
recently that some inbreeding has
occurred and has resulted in some
"birds having misformed toes.
Individuals with an interest in
doves or wanting to add a soothing
cooing to their aviary " ambiance"
should consider purchasing a pair of
Barbary Doves. Often considered a
good beginner's bird, after over 20
years of maintaining birds, it is one
with which I have not yet been able
to part.