Moreno's ground dove facts for kids
The Moreno's ground dove (Metriopelia morenoi), also known as the bare-eyed ground dove, is a small bird that belongs to the Columbidae family, which includes doves and pigeons. This special bird is found only in Argentina.
Quick facts for kids Moreno's ground dove |
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| Genus: |
Metriopelia
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| Species: |
morenoi
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Gymnopelia morenoi |
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Contents
About the Moreno's Ground Dove's Family
The Moreno's ground dove is closely related to another bird called the bare-faced ground dove (Metriopelia ceciliae). Both of these doves were once placed in a different group, but now they are together in the Metriopelia genus. This bird is considered "monotypic," which means it's the only species in its group without any subspecies.
What Does the Moreno's Ground Dove Look Like?
This dove is about 17 cm (6.7 in) long, which is roughly the length of a small ruler. Its back and upper parts are mostly a dull brown color. Its head and shoulders have a grayish shade.
The throat of the Moreno's ground dove is light gray. This color gradually changes to a brownish-gray on its chest and belly. Near its vent (the area under its tail), it becomes a buffy color, and the feathers under its tail are reddish-brown. The outer feathers of its tail are black with white tips.
One of the most interesting features of this bird is its eye. It has a blue eye surrounded by bright orange bare skin. This orange skin is then outlined by a thin black line. Both male and female doves look very similar, but the female's eye area might be a bit paler. Young doves look like the adults, but many of their feathers have reddish-brown edges.
Where Does the Moreno's Ground Dove Live?
The Moreno's ground dove lives only in the northwestern part of Argentina. It prefers cool, high-altitude grasslands. These areas often have cactus plants, scrub bushes, and some scattered trees at lower elevations. You can find these doves living at heights from at least 1,800 to 3,200 m (5,900 to 10,500 ft) above sea level. That's pretty high up!
How Does the Moreno's Ground Dove Behave?
Feeding Habits
Moreno's ground doves are known to search for food on the ground. They usually do this in small groups. However, scientists haven't fully studied what exactly they eat.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
When it's time to lay eggs, the Moreno's ground dove chooses cavities (small hollows) in earthen banks. They typically lay two eggs. Not much more is known about their breeding habits or how their young develop.
Vocalizations
While their calls are not widely studied, these doves have been heard making soft, cooing sounds. These calls can be a series of 3 to 5 gentle, nasal "cuEec cuEec cuEec." They also make a faster, deeper series of "coo coo coo coo coo."
Conservation Status
The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) has evaluated the Moreno's ground dove. They have listed it as a species of "Least Concern." This means that, for now, it's not considered to be in immediate danger of disappearing. However, it's important to remember that this bird lives in a very small area and is not well-studied. Scientists still have a lot to learn about it!
See also
In Spanish: Tortolita de ojos desnudos para niños
