Operation Turtle Dove diversion protects endangered species
When the Environment Agency needed to refurbish their equipment in Minster, Kent, they were worried the noise would disturb migrating Turtle Doves spending their summer on the site.
We really wanted to help the birds, so a diversionary plan was launched. The plan was to lure the birds to a new home in our neighbouring Minster Wastewater Treatment Works – by laying down a trail of seeds in the form a special bespoke supplementary mix for Turtle Doves!
Now the endangered Turtle Doves are setting up a potential breeding ground within the trees of our site instead – under the watchful eye of the RSPB.
Mike Thomas, our Field Performance Manager, said: “Diverting rare Turtle Doves on their migrating course in a Kent Wastewater Treatment Works isn’t part of my job description, but I’m always help if I can!
“Luring the birds away from their usual foraging route with just seeds worked really well, and we get to see these beautiful birds, who have travelled all the way from Africa, every day during the summer – which is amazing.”
Nicole Khan, Conservation Officer at the RSPB said: “The collaborative work of Southern Water and Operation Turtle Dove at the site has been a success, as we’ve seen images of a juvenile Turtle Dove from the breeding pair that have made the temporary Southern Water site their home this season.”
Nicole added: “Turtle Doves are Europe’s only migratory dove and spend the winter south of the Sahara, so we are keen to encourage them to the UK whenever we can.”
Rhianna Dix is Biodiversity Officer at the Environment Agency, which has been working with the RSPB for several years on Operation Turtle Dove on its own site, including setting up feeding stations to provide a supplementary food source for the migratory birds on arrival to the UK.
She said: “Due to improvement works and the noise which could disrupt the turtle doves, we engaged with the RSPB and Southern Water, who agreed to provide the feeding station on our behalf this season within the adjacent water treatment area. Here the birds will be monitored to ensure they are protected throughout the duration of the works.”
UK Turtle Dove numbers have declined by 99% between 1967 and 2020, due to hunting and lack of seed rich food in foraging habitats. There has been a 40% increase in numbers from 2021 to 2024.
Turtle Dove Facts
A group of these birds is called a truelove of Turtle Doves
Turtle Doves are Europe’s only migratory dove and spend the winter south of the Sahara
The birds winter in Africa and return to the UK and Europe each year
The UK Turtle Dove population has declined significantly, with a 99% decrease since 1967
Turtle Doves are often used as a symbol of love and fidelity
