Black-winged Ground Dove
NameBlack-winged Ground Dove
Common NameBlack-winged Ground Dove
Scientific NameMetriopelia melanoptera
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsOverall brownish-grey plumage, often with a scaly appearance on the breast and neck. A prominent bright yellow orbital ring encircles the eye. The primary flight feathers are black, which is most noticeable during flight.
Vocalization / CallA soft, low-pitched cooing or hooting sound, often described as a series of 'hoo-hoo-hoo' notes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes Mountains of South America, ranging from southern Colombia through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, extending south to central Chile and Argentina.
Identifying Featuressmall size, brownish-grey plumage, bright yellow orbital ring, black primary flight feathers (visible in flight), ground-dwelling habits, high-altitude habitat
Description
This small, plump ground dove is characterized by its brownish-grey plumage and distinctive bright yellow orbital ring. It is typically found foraging on the ground in high-altitude Andean regions, often seen in small flocks.
