Shy Ground Dove
NameShy Ground Dove
Common NameShy Ground Dove
Scientific NameZentrygon veraguensis
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)25.5
Weight (g)158.5
Plumage DetailsFeatures a dark brown crown and nape, contrasting with a pale buffy-white face and throat, often with a dark malar stripe. The upperparts, including the mantle and wing coverts, are a rich iridescent purplish-maroon, transitioning to darker brown on the flight feathers. Underparts are whitish, sometimes with a buffy wash, and grayish flanks.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a low, mournful 'hoo-oo-oo' or 'whoo-oo-oo' call, often repeated, which can be difficult to locate in dense forest.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeThis species is found in Central America, specifically ranging from Costa Rica to western Panama, inhabiting humid lowland and foothill forests.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent purplish-maroon upperparts, Pale face and throat contrasting with dark crown, Dark malar stripe, Terrestrial foraging behavior, Mournful, low-pitched call
Description
The Shy Ground Dove is a medium-sized, terrestrial dove characterized by its dark crown, pale face, and striking iridescent purplish-maroon upperparts. It typically forages quietly on the forest floor, often alone or in pairs, seeking seeds and fallen fruits.
