Identification
Physical Characteristics
Size: A small, slender dove, typically measuring 25-27 cm from head to tail.
Coloration: The Laughing Dove has a distinctive colour pattern. Its back, wings, and tail are a soft, reddish-brown. The head and neck are pinkish-grey, fading to a whitish belly. Its most prominent feature is a 'collar' of black speckles on the front and sides of its neck. The primary flight feathers are dark grey or black, which are noticeable in flight. The eyes are dark, and the bill is black.
Key Features: The key identifiers are its small size, reddish-brown back, and the unique speckled black collar on its throat and neck. Its gentle, bubbling 'coo-coo-coo' call, which sounds like soft laughter, is also highly characteristic.
Biology & Lifecycle
Development & Reproduction
Reproduction Rate: Highly prolific. In the favourable conditions of suburban Perth, they can raise multiple broods per year, sometimes as many as 5 or 6. This rapid breeding is a key reason for their successful establishment.
Lifecycle Details
Egg Stage
The female typically lays a clutch of two small, white, glossy eggs in a flimsy nest. Incubation is shared by both parents and lasts for approximately 13-15 days. They can breed at any time of year if conditions are favourable.
Larval Stage
Not applicable. The young are called chicks or squabs.
Pupal Stage
Not applicable.
Adult Stage
Chicks are fed 'crop milk', a secretion from the lining of the parents' crops, for the first few days, before transitioning to regurgitated seeds. They fledge (leave the nest) at around 14-17 days old but may be fed by the parents for another week or two. They reach sexual maturity at a few months old, allowing for rapid population growth. They are monogamous and form strong pair bonds.
Reproduction Rate
Highly prolific. In the favourable conditions of suburban Perth, they can raise multiple broods per year, sometimes as many as 5 or 6. This rapid breeding is a key reason for their successful establishment.
Generations Per Year
Multiple generations per year are typical.
Development Time
The entire cycle from egg laying to the fledging of young takes only about one month.
Seasonal Cycle
Breeding can occur year-round in Perth, but there is a noticeable peak in activity during the spring and autumn months. Flocking behaviour may be more common in winter.
Environmental Factors
Their success is closely tied to human-modified environments that provide a reliable supply of food (spilled grain, bird feeders), water, and nesting sites (exotic trees, buildings).
Habitat & Distribution
Preferred Habitats
- Urban and suburban parks, gardens, and backyards.
- Agricultural areas, particularly around grain storage and livestock feeding areas.
- Lightly wooded areas and scrubland.
- They are highly adapted to and thrive in human-altered landscapes.
- They avoid dense, wet forests.
Distribution Patterns
Australian Distribution
Their population is almost entirely confined to the southwest of Western Australia, centered around the Perth metropolitan area and extending into nearby agricultural regions.
Climate Zones
- Mediterranean
Urban vs Rural Distribution
Very common in both urban and rural areas within its limited Australian range.
Native Range
Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent.
Introduced Range
Introduced to Western Australia.
Introduction History
Deliberately introduced to the South Perth Zoological Gardens in 1898, from where they either escaped or were released.
Current Spread
The population is well-established and stable within southwest WA but has not shown an ability to cross the Nullarbor Plain or spread into the arid interior, limiting its national spread.
Limiting Factors
The vast, arid expanse of the Nullarbor Plain has acted as a major geographical barrier, preventing its natural spread to the eastern states.
Behavior & Diet
Activity Pattern
Diurnal. They are active throughout the day, foraging for food on the ground.
Dietary Preferences
Feeding Habits
Granivorous, meaning their diet consists mainly of seeds.
Health Risks
Always consult healthcare professionals for medical concerns related to pest exposure.
Disease Transmission
- Like all birds, they can potentially carry and transmit avian diseases, but they are not considered a major vector for diseases affecting humans in Australia.
- Their droppings can contain bacteria like Salmonella, but the risk of transmission is low compared to that from Feral Pigeons.
Allergens and Respiratory Issues
Bird droppings and feather dust can be a source of allergens for sensitive individuals, potentially triggering asthma or allergic rhinitis.
Contamination Risk
Droppings can contaminate outdoor furniture, vehicles, and paved areas. If they gain access to food storage or processing areas, they could pose a contamination risk.
Vulnerable Populations
- Immunocompromised individuals or those with severe respiratory allergies may need to avoid areas with large accumulations of bird droppings.
Symptoms of Exposure
- Allergic reactions may include sneezing, wheezing, and skin irritation.
Transmission Methods
- Inhalation of aerosolized dust from dried droppings.
Risk Severity
Low. The health risks associated with Laughing Doves are minor, especially when compared to Feral Pigeons.
Economic Impact
Treatment Costs
Professional Treatment
Rarely required. If needed for a specific commercial site, costs for deterrents like netting or spikes would be similar to pigeon control ($500 - $5000+).
Prevention Costs
Minimal. Related to general property maintenance.
Diy Treatment
$50 - $150 for DIY deterrents like scare tape or humane traps.
Property Damage
Structural Damage
The acidity of their droppings can cause minor corrosion and staining on building materials over time, but this is not a significant issue.
Garden Damage
Can cause minor damage to seedlings or cultivated grain crops if they gather in large numbers.
Food Contamination
A potential risk in grain handling facilities or outdoor cafes within their range.
Equipment Damage
Nests and droppings can block gutters and downpipes.
Business Impact
Restaurant Issues
Can become a nuisance in outdoor cafes, scavenging for food scraps.
Retail Impact
Minimal.
Reputation Damage
Large, messy accumulations of droppings can create a poor impression for a business.
Operational Disruption
Minimal.
Agricultural Impact
Crop Damage
Can be a minor pest of grain crops, particularly around harvest time when they feed on spilled or ripening grain.
Yield Loss
Generally considered negligible.
Beneficial Aspects
They may eat weed seeds, but this is not a significant benefit.
Economic Loss
Considered a minor nuisance rather than a significant economic pest.
Indirect Costs
Healthcare Costs
Minimal.
Cleanup Costs
Costs associated with cleaning droppings from public areas, commercial buildings, and homes.
Replacement Costs
None.
Preventive Maintenance
None.
Detection & Signs
Common Signs of Laughing Dove Activity
- Large amounts of droppings in concentrated areas, particularly on ledges, under bridges, and around buildings
- Visual sightings of live birds, especially in flocks around buildings or food sources
- Nesting materials such as twigs, feathers, and debris in sheltered areas like roof voids, balconies, and building crevices
- Damage to property including stained surfaces from acidic droppings and blocked gutters from nesting materials
- Unpleasant odors from accumulated droppings and decaying nesting materials
- Noise disturbances, particularly early morning cooing, flapping, and scratching sounds
Areas to Check
- Building ledges, window sills, and architectural features that provide shelter
- Under eaves, balconies, and covered outdoor areas
- Around air conditioning units, solar panels, and rooftop equipment
- Bridge underpasses and similar structures
- Near food sources such as outdoor dining areas and waste disposal points
Prevention
Sanitation Measures
- Avoid feeding them. Securely store pet food and ensure bird feeders are not accessible to doves.
- Clean up food scraps and spills in outdoor eating areas promptly.
- Ensure rubbish bins have tight-fitting lids.
Exclusion Methods
- Install bird netting over vegetable gardens or balconies to prevent access.
- Use bird spikes or other physical deterrents on ledges, beams, and signs to prevent them from landing and roosting.
- Block any holes or gaps in building structures where they might try to nest.
Landscaping Tips
- Prune dense shrubs and trees to make them less attractive as nesting sites.
- Remove their flimsy nests as soon as they are built (check for eggs first) to discourage them from settling in a particular spot.
- Use scare devices like reflective tape, scare-eye balloons, or motion-activated sprinklers to create an uncomfortable environment for them.
Monitoring Strategies
- Regularly inspect your property for signs of nesting or roosting, particularly in sheltered locations.
- Pay attention to the number of birds visiting your property. A sudden increase could signal a problem.
Environmental Modification
- Modifying the angle of ledges to be greater than 45 degrees can prevent them from roosting.
- Removing access to reliable water sources can make an area less attractive.
Control Methods
Professional Treatment Methods
Chemical Control
Chemical control (avicides) is not used for this species and is highly regulated. Control focuses on non-lethal methods.
Biological Control
Not applicable.
Physical Control
A licensed professional can undertake trapping programs to reduce the population at a specific site, followed by humane euthanasia. This is typically only done in commercial settings where they pose a significant nuisance or contamination risk.
Integrated Approach
A professional approach involves a site assessment followed by the implementation of a multi-faceted strategy using deterrents (spikes, netting), habitat modification (pruning, cleaning), and potentially a trapping program to remove the existing flock.
DIY Treatment Options
Natural Remedies
None are proven to be effective.
Home Made Traps
Trapping by the public is subject to animal welfare laws and is not recommended. It is easy to accidentally trap and harm native species.
Deterrent Methods
DIY deterrents like scare tape, old CDs, and predator decoys (e.g., a plastic owl) may have a short-term effect but the birds often become accustomed to them quickly.
Mechanical Control
Installing bird spikes or netting on ledges is the most effective DIY mechanical control.
Treatment Effectiveness
Success Rate
Exclusion methods like netting are highly effective. Deterrents have variable and often temporary success. Trapping can be effective but the population will rebound if the area remains attractive.
Timeframe
Exclusion is immediate. Trapping programs may take several weeks.
Follow Up Required
Essential. Any control program must be followed up with diligent prevention and exclusion measures to prevent the problem from returning.
Seasonal Considerations
It is best to install deterrents and remove nests before the peak breeding season in spring.
Application Techniques
- Correct installation of bird netting, ensuring no gaps for birds to enter.
- Proper placement of bird spikes on ledges and beams.
- Strategic trapping programs in commercial settings.
Professional Services
Professional Treatment Services
Chemical Control
Chemical control (avicides) is not used for this species and is highly regulated. Control focuses on non-lethal methods.
Biological Control
Not applicable.
Physical Control
A licensed professional can undertake trapping programs to reduce the population at a specific site, followed by humane euthanasia. This is typically only done in commercial settings where they pose a significant nuisance or contamination risk.
Integrated Approach
A professional approach involves a site assessment followed by the implementation of a multi-faceted strategy using deterrents (spikes, netting), habitat modification (pruning, cleaning), and potentially a trapping program to remove the existing flock.
Professional Treatment Costs
Rarely required. If needed for a specific commercial site, costs for deterrents like netting or spikes would be similar to pigeon control ($500 - $5000+).
Treatment Success Rates
Exclusion methods like netting are highly effective. Deterrents have variable and often temporary success. Trapping can be effective but the population will rebound if the area remains attractive.
Treatment Timeframe
Exclusion is immediate. Trapping programs may take several weeks.
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Browse All ProvidersSeasonal Patterns
Spring Activity
Peak breeding season. Increased cooing, courtship displays, and nest building. Flocks may disperse into breeding pairs.
Summer Activity
Breeding continues. Young birds from the spring broods become independent.
Autumn Activity
Another peak in breeding activity often occurs as temperatures cool slightly.
Winter Activity
Breeding activity decreases. Birds may form larger foraging flocks to search for food.
Breeding Season
Can breed year-round, with peaks in spring and autumn.
Peak Activity Period
They are most likely to be considered a nuisance during the spring and summer months when they are actively breeding and vocalising near homes.
Environmental Factors
Temperature Effects
Warm weather promotes breeding activity.
Humidity Effects
Adaptable.
Photoperiod Effects
Increasing day length in spring is a major trigger for breeding.
Weather Patterns
Consistent rainfall can lead to more abundant weed seeds, supporting larger populations.
Legal Considerations
Legal Considerations
Professional pest control operators must be licensed and comply with relevant state and local regulations regarding bird control treatments. Most bird species in Australia are not protected, allowing for standard pest control methods. However, it's recommended to verify specific regulations in your area before implementing control measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Laughing Doves native to Australia?
No, the Laughing Dove is not native to Australia. It is an introduced species that originates from Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. It was deliberately introduced to Perth, Western Australia, in 1898. Since then, it has established a large and self-sustaining feral population, but it has remained almost entirely confined to the southwest corner of Western Australia. The arid Nullarbor Plain has acted as a natural barrier, preventing its spread to the eastern states. So, while it is a common bird in Perth, it is not a part of Australia's native fauna.
Are Laughing Doves a serious pest?
Laughing Doves are generally considered a minor nuisance pest rather than a serious one. Unlike Feral Pigeons, they do not typically cause significant structural damage to buildings. However, in large numbers, they can become problematic. Their droppings can be messy and can contaminate outdoor areas. They can damage seedlings and small plants in gardens and can be a minor pest of grain crops. They may also compete with smaller native birds for food resources in suburban gardens. Their impact is highly localised to areas where their populations are dense, primarily within their limited range in Western Australia.
How can I stop Laughing Doves from coming into my garden?
The most effective way to discourage Laughing Doves is to make your garden less attractive to them. The primary reason they congregate is for food and water. Avoid feeding them, and if you have bird feeders for other birds, consider using designs that larger birds like doves cannot easily access. Clean up any spilled pet food immediately. You can also use deterrents to make the area feel unsafe for them. Visual deterrents like reflective scare tape, scare-eye balloons, or predator decoys (like a fake owl, which should be moved regularly) can be effective. Physical exclusion, such as covering your vegetable patch with bird netting, is the best way to protect your plants.
What's the difference between a Laughing Dove and a Spotted Dove?
These two introduced doves are similar in size but can be distinguished by two key features: their neck markings and their distribution in Australia. The Laughing Dove has a distinctive collar of fine black speckles on the front of its throat and neck. The Spotted Dove has a much bolder, checkerboard-like patch of black and white spots located on the back and sides of its neck. The easiest difference for most Australians is location: if you are in Perth or southwest WA, you are seeing a Laughing Dove. If you are on the east coast (e.g., Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane), you are seeing a Spotted Dove.
Is it legal to control or remove Laughing Doves?
As an introduced, non-native species, the Laughing Dove is not protected under Australian law. This means that lethal control is legally permissible. However, any control action must strictly adhere to state-based animal welfare legislation, which mandates that animals must be handled and euthanized humanely. Methods like shooting are also heavily restricted by firearm laws and are only applicable in very specific rural situations by licensed individuals. For the general public, trapping and killing birds is not recommended. The focus should always be on humane methods like exclusion and deterrents. If a population is a significant problem, a licensed professional pest manager should be engaged.
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