Red-eyed dove facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Red-eyed dove |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Streptopelia
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| Species: |
semitorquata
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The red-eyed dove (Streptopelia semitorquata) is a common bird found across a large part of Africa, south of the Sahara Desert. It's a type of dove, which is a bird similar to a pigeon. Scientists have listed it as a species of "Least Concern" since 2004. This means it's not currently in danger of disappearing.
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About the Red-Eyed Dove's Name
The red-eyed dove was first officially described by a German scientist named Eduard Rüppell in 1835. He saw these birds in the Taranta Mountains of Eritrea. He gave it the scientific name Columba semitorquata. The "semitorquata" part of its name comes from Latin words. "Semi-" means "half" or "small," and "torquatus" means "collared." So, its name describes its "half-collar" marking. This dove is considered a single species, meaning there are no different types or subspecies of it.
What Does the Red-Eyed Dove Look Like?
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The red-eyed dove is a fairly large, strong pigeon. It usually grows to be about 30 centimeters (12 inches) long. Its back, wings, and tail are a light brown color. When it flies, you can see its dark, almost black, flight feathers.
Its head and belly are a deep pinkish-red color. This color fades to a light gray on its face. A special mark is a black patch on the back of its neck, which has a white edge. The dove's legs and the skin around its eyes are bright red. The red-eyed dove makes a loud sound that often sounds like "doo-doo-du-du."
Young Doves
Male and female red-eyed doves look very similar. However, young doves are not as brightly colored as adults. Their body feathers also have a wavy or "scalloped" pattern.
What Do They Eat?
Red-eyed doves mostly eat seeds from grasses and other plants. They also eat grains. They often look for their food on the ground.
Where Do Red-Eyed Doves Live?
These doves live across most of Africa, south of the Sahara Desert. They are not found in very dry desert areas. They are a common bird in many different places. You can find them in most habitats, except for deserts.
Unlike some other birds, red-eyed doves usually don't gather in very large groups. They often feed alone or in pairs. They like to live in forests that are close to rivers.
Life and Habits
Reproduction
Red-eyed doves build their nests out of sticks in trees. The female dove usually lays two white eggs.
Flight
Their flight is fast and steady. They beat their wings regularly. Sometimes, they give a sharp flick of their wings. This quick, flicking flight is common for many types of pigeons.
