Chestnut-quilled Rock Pigeon
NameChestnut-quilled Rock Pigeon
Common NameChestnut-quilled Rock Pigeon
Scientific NamePetrophassa rufipennis
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)29.5
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsOverall dark brown to blackish plumage with fine white spotting or scaling on the head, neck, and upper breast, giving a speckled appearance. The most striking feature is the rufous (chestnut) inner webs of the primary flight feathers, visible as a flash of color during flight or when the wings are slightly open. It has a dark bill and a pale eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallA soft, mournful cooing or hooting call, often described as a repeated 'coo-oo-oo' or 'hoo-hoo-hoo'.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to northern Australia, primarily found in the Kimberley region of Western Australia and the Top End of the Northern Territory.
Identifying FeaturesDark brown body with white spotting on head and neck, Rufous (chestnut) patches on primary flight feathers, Prefers rocky outcrops and gorges, Pale eye-ring
Description
This medium-sized pigeon is characterized by its dark, mottled plumage and preference for rocky habitats. It is often seen foraging on the ground among sandstone outcrops and gorges in northern Australia. Its distinctive rufous wing patches are a key identification feature.
