Eurasian collared doves (Streptopelia decaocto) are often found around towns and villages, so you might very well see or hear them when you are in or near Gavalochori. They are pinkish-brown in color and have long tail feathers that are white from below (so you will see white when they are flying). They have a black half collar at the nape of their necks, which is what gives them their name. They are about 32 centimeters (12 inches) long, and you will often hear their distinctive cry: “woo-WOOO!-woo.” They feed on seeds, grains such as wheat and corn, and berries. The birds don’t drink water as most birds do by scooping water up and tipping their heads back to let it run down into their throats. Instead, they drink head down, submerging their bills and sucking water as if drinking through a straw.
