Red-eyed Dove
NameRed-eyed Dove
Common NameRed-eyed Dove
Scientific NameStreptopelia semitorquata
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)32
Weight (g)205
Plumage DetailsThe head and neck are pale grey, becoming whitish on the forehead and throat. The body is a soft pinkish-grey, with darker brownish-grey wings and back. A prominent black half-collar is present on the nape. The eyes are red, surrounded by a bare red orbital ring, and the legs are reddish.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a deep, resonant 'coo-coo-COO-coo' or 'doo-doo-doo-doo-doo', often described as a mournful or melancholic sound, repeated several times.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south throughout much of Southern Africa.
Identifying FeaturesRed eye-ring and red iris, Black half-collar on the nape, Pale grey head contrasting with pinkish-grey body, Medium dove size
Description
The Red-eyed Dove is a medium-sized dove characterized by its pale head, pinkish-grey body, and a distinctive black half-collar on the nape. It is commonly found in woodlands, savannas, and urban areas across sub-Saharan Africa, often foraging on the ground for seeds and fruits.
