The breeding population of the turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur) has suffered a population decline, having declined in population between 1970 and 1990, especially since the mid-1980s and particularly in Western Europe.

In Spain, this decrease has been estimated at between 20% and 49% of the population in 20 years, indicating that the partial information available indicates that the reduction exceeds the vulnerability threshold of 30% in the last decade. According to the threat categories established by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the European turtle dove is considered a vulnerable species.

That is why this project seeks to deepen the knowledge of this species. The priorities of the study are their migratory movements and the state of the population. The results are intended to establish correct management guidelines.

The activities that will be carried out to materialize this objective are the following:

• To know the migratory phenology of the species, both prenuptial and post-nuptial and the historical trend of migratory flow.
• To know the reproductive phenology of the species and reproductive success.
• Characterize the hunting use of the species and analyze the historical capture trend.

Finally, the project also includes the preparation of a report with the results obtained, as well as the dissemination of the information and conclusions obtained.

Action program: Implementation of the European Birds and Habitats Directives and promotion of sustainable management of livestock, agriculture, fisheries, hunting, tourism, forest uses and other activities in the Natura 2000 Network.

Photo: Turtle Dove. Alberto Aníbal