The Ring-necked Dove (Streptopelia risoria), also known as the Laughing Dove or Turtle Dove, is a medium-sized pigeon native to parts of Africa and South Asia. It is part of the Columbidae family, which includes both doves and pigeons. These birds are known for their graceful appearance, soft cooing sounds, and peaceful demeanor. Physical Characteristics: Size and Shape: Ring-necked doves are about 12 to 14 inches (30 to 35 cm) in length, with a wingspan of approximately 20 inches (50 cm). They have a slender, streamlined body, which gives them a graceful, delicate appearance. Coloration: Their plumage is primarily light gray to pale brown, with a distinctive dark crescent-shaped "ring" of feathers around the neck—hence the name "Ring-necked." Their underparts are paler, usually white or light gray. The tail is long and pointed, often displaying white tips. The eyes are dark, and they have a small, pinkish area around the base of the beak. Distinctive Features: The most distinguishing feature is the black crescent-shaped line on the neck, which can sometimes appear more pronounced in males. Additionally, their flight is characterized by strong, direct flapping, followed by short glides. Habitat: Ring-necked doves are native to warm regions of Africa, India, and Sri Lanka. They prefer open landscapes such as savannas, forest edges, and urban areas, where food is abundant and they can find places to nest. These birds are highly adaptable and can live in various environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. Diet: Ring-necked doves are granivorous, meaning their primary food source is seeds. In the wild, they feed on a variety of seeds from grasses, shrubs, and trees, as well as grains like wheat, millet, and corn. In captivity, they are typically fed a mixture of seeds specifically designed for doves or pigeons, supplemented with occasional fruits and vegetables. Behavior and Social Structure: Ring-necked doves are social creatures and are often found in pairs or small flocks. They form strong bonds with their mates and are generally non-aggressive toward other birds. Their call, a soft and mournful "coo," is a signature sound that can be heard from great distances. They are peaceful, calm, and less likely to become agitated, which makes them excellent pets. Their behavior is relatively predictable: they spend much of their time foraging for food, preening their feathers, and resting. History as Pets Ring-necked doves have a long history as pets and domesticated birds. Their role as companion animals dates back several centuries, and their popularity has only increased due to their calm nature and easy care requirements. Domestication History: The domestication of the ring-necked dove is believed to have occurred in ancient Egypt, where these birds were kept for both their symbolic and practical value. In Egyptian culture, doves symbolized peace, love, and fertility, making them significant in religious and cultural ceremonies. Over time, ring-necked doves were introduced to various parts of the world. During the colonial period, European explorers and traders brought these birds back from their native regions, where they were kept as ornamental pets and used in aviaries. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the ring-necked dove had gained popularity across Europe and North America, largely due to its gentle temperament, ease of care, and ability to adapt to life in captivity. Their ability to breed easily in captivity also made them appealing to both hobbyists and breeders.