Blue-spotted Wood-Dove
NameBlue-spotted Wood-Dove
Common NameBlue-spotted Wood-Dove
Scientific NameTurtur afer
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)27
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsThe head is pale grey, contrasting with a reddish bill that has a dark tip. The breast is pinkish-rufous, fading to white on the belly. The back and wings are tawny-brown, featuring several prominent iridescent blue-black spots on the secondary coverts. The legs are red.
Vocalization / CallA soft, low, mournful cooing call, often described as a series of 'doo-doo-doo' notes that descend slightly in pitch.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and south to Angola and Zambia.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent blue spots on wings, Grey head, Reddish bill with dark tip, Pinkish-rufous breast, Red legs
Description
This small, shy dove is typically found foraging on the ground in wooded areas across sub-Saharan Africa. It is easily identified by its grey head, reddish bill, and distinctive iridescent blue spots on its wings. Its soft cooing call is a common sound in its habitat.
