If your true love sent you two turtledoves on the second day of Christmas, that's a symbol of a lifetime commitment, as these birds mate for life. While Streptopelia turtur is found in the wild in Europe, in North America any wild turtledoves result from domestic birds getting loose or being deliberately released.
Life Span in Captivity
In captivity, turtledoves can live 20 years or more. That's an important consideration if you're considering one for a pet. Keep your turtledoves healthy by providing them with feed specifically formulated for doves and pigeons, along with healthy treats of fruits and veggies.
Life Span in the Wild
Wild turtledoves don't live as long as their domestic counterparts. In the wild, most turtledoves will not reach the age of 14 years, so their maximum life span is approximately a third less than their captive counterparts.
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Writer Bio
Jane Meggitt has been a writer for more than 20 years. In addition to reporting for a major newspaper chain, she has been published in "Horse News," "Suburban Classic," "Hoof Beats," "Equine Journal" and other publications. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English from New York University and an Associate of Arts from the American Academy of Dramatics Arts, New York City.
