Scaly-naped Pigeon
NameScaly-naped Pigeon
Common NameScaly-naped Pigeon
Scientific NamePatagioenas squamosa
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)38
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsOverall dark slate-gray plumage, with the head, neck, and upper breast being purplish-maroon. The nape and hindneck feature stiff, dark-edged feathers creating a distinctive scaly appearance. It has bright red eyes with a bare red orbital ring, and a red bill tipped with yellow. Legs and feet are red.
Vocalization / CallA deep, booming 'whoo-whoo-whoo' or 'coo-coo-coo' call, often repeated and somewhat mournful.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout the Caribbean islands, including the Greater and Lesser Antilles, and some islands off the coast of Venezuela.
Identifying FeaturesScaly pattern on nape and hindneck, Dark slate-gray body with purplish-maroon head/neck, Red eyes with bare red orbital ring, Red bill with yellow tip, Large size for a pigeon
Description
The Scaly-naped Pigeon is a large, dark pigeon native to the Caribbean. It is characterized by its distinctive scaly pattern on the nape and neck, and its preference for forested habitats where it forages for fruits.
