Red-eyed dove

The Red-eyed dove (Streptopelia semitorquata) is a prominent avian species within the Columbidae family, widely distributed across Sub-Saharan Africa. In agricultural landscapes, this bird is frequently categorized as a significant pest, known for its ability to congregate in large numbers and consume substantial volumes of agricultural produce.

From a taxonomic perspective, this species is classified under the order Columbiformes. Its ecological success is largely due to its adaptability to disturbed habitats, allowing it to thrive in proximity to farmland, which serves as an abundant source of supplemental nutrition throughout the year.

The species primarily targets cereal crops and oilseeds. Common hosts include sorghum, maize, rice, and sunflowers. The damage is most acute during the sowing phase, where the birds dig up planted seeds, and during the pre-harvest phase, where they settle on stems or enter fields to feed directly on mature heads and grains.

The biological cycle of the Red-eyed dove facilitates rapid population growth, as breeding can occur throughout the year given favorable food availability. Their movement patterns often involve daily flights between roosting sites and forage-rich fields, resulting in a consistent and sustained pressure on agricultural production units.

Integrated pest management strategies to mitigate bird damage include the following approaches:

• Implementation of mechanical scarecrows and reflective materials to deter birds from fields.
• Deployment of acoustic devices that emit predator calls or distress signals.
• Application of seed treatments that act as taste-based repellents for birds.
• Strategic timing of harvesting operations to minimize the exposure window of ripe crops to avian foraging.