Lemon Dove
NameLemon Dove
Common NameLemon Dove
Scientific NameColumba larvata
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)115
Plumage DetailsMales have a striking white forehead and face, a reddish-brown crown and nape, and a dark greyish-brown back and wings. The underparts are often rufous-chestnut, particularly on the belly and undertail coverts. Females are generally duller, with a greyish face and less vibrant rufous tones.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a soft, low, mournful cooing call, often described as a series of 'hoo-hoo-hoo' notes that can sometimes accelerate.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Lemon Dove has a fragmented distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Sierra Leone in the west, east to Ethiopia, and south through various forest blocks to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesWhite face (male), Reddish-brown nape, Dark greyish-brown body, Rufous undertail coverts, Ground-dwelling behavior in dense forests
Description
The Lemon Dove is a small, shy dove typically found foraging on the forest floor, often blending seamlessly with the leaf litter. It is characterized by its distinctive pale head, reddish nape, and dark greyish-brown body plumage. This species is generally solitary or found in pairs, feeding quietly on the ground.
