Dusky Turtle-Dove
NameDusky Turtle-Dove
Common NameDusky Turtle-Dove
Scientific NameStreptopelia lugens
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)185
Plumage DetailsThe head and underparts are a uniform grey, becoming darker on the crown and nape. A prominent black patch with white tips is present on the side of the neck. The back and wing coverts are dark grey with broad rufous-brown fringes, creating a scaled or scalloped pattern. The primaries are dark, and the tail is dark with grey outer feathers. The eyes are striking reddish-orange, the bill is black, and the legs are reddish.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a low, mournful cooing call, often described as a series of 'coo-coo-coo-coo' notes, sometimes with an emphasis on the third note.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, ranging from Eritrea and Ethiopia south through Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia.
Identifying FeaturesOverall grey plumage, Reddish-orange eyes, Black neck patch with white tips, Scaled appearance on back and wings due to rufous-brown fringes, Dark bill and reddish legs
Description
The Dusky Turtle-Dove is a medium-sized dove characterized by its overall grey plumage, reddish-orange eyes, and a distinctive black patch on the side of its neck. It typically forages on the ground for seeds and grains, often found in montane habitats.
