Malagasy Turtle-Dove
NameMalagasy Turtle-Dove
Common NameMalagasy Turtle-Dove
Scientific NameNesoenas picturata
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)163
Plumage DetailsThe head and neck are greyish-blue, often with a purplish sheen, and the hindneck shows fine dark spotting or scaling. The back and wings are a deep reddish-brown to maroon, becoming darker on the flight feathers. Underparts are paler, ranging from buffy to greyish-pink, and it has a distinctive red orbital ring around the eye.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of soft, mournful cooing calls, often described as a series of 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'coo-coo-coo' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to Madagascar and the Comoro Islands, where it is widespread and common.
Identifying FeaturesGrey head and neck, Reddish-brown body plumage, Red orbital ring, Finely spotted hindneck, Ground-foraging behavior
Description
The Malagasy Turtle-Dove is a medium-sized dove characterized by its grey head and neck, contrasting with a rich reddish-brown body. It is often seen foraging on the ground in various wooded and semi-open habitats across its native range.
