Tambourine Dove
NameTambourine Dove
Common NameTambourine Dove
Scientific NameTurtur tympanistria
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsMales have a bright white forehead, face, and underparts, with a dark brown crown and nape. The upperparts are rufous-brown, and the wings feature two prominent black spots. Females are duller with greyish-white underparts.
Vocalization / CallA soft, mournful, and rhythmic "doo-doo-doo-doo" or "coo-coo-coo-coo" call, often likened to the sound of a drum or tambourine.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featureswhite face and underparts, rufous-brown upperparts, two prominent black spots on wings, small size
Description
This small, shy dove is characterized by its striking white face and underparts contrasting with rufous-brown upperparts. It typically forages on the forest floor for seeds and fallen fruits, often heard by its distinctive drumming call.
