Pallid Dove

Profile: Pallid Dove

1. Bird Name
English Name: Pallid Dove
Scientific Name: Leptotila pallida

2. Appearance
The Pallid Dove is a beautiful bird known for its subtle and gentle coloration. It is predominantly brownish-gray with a slightly pinkish undertone on the chest and belly. The back of the neck shines in an iridescent green and pink when the light hits it just right. It has a striking white-tipped tail that stands out against a sharp contrast to its overall coloration. The bird sports a small, slightly curved bill that is black at the tip and gray at the base. The eyes, encircled by a thin, blue skin patch, are dark, lending an aura of intrigue to its appearance. There are no significant differences in appearance between males and females.

3. Size
The average length of a Pallid Dove ranges from 27 to 30 cm (10.5 inches to 12 inches). They have a wingspan of approximately 45 cm (17.7 inches), and their weight varies from 150 to 200 grams, providing a balanced and graceful presence.

4. Habitat & Distribution
The Pallid Dove is found mainly in Central and South America. They inhabit areas from Costa Rica to Colombia and all the way down to Ecuador. They prefer dry or moist shrublands, secondary forests, or degraded forests, which are below the altitude of 1200 meters.

5. Interesting Facts
Pallid Doves exhibit a fascinating behavior of deceptive nesting. When an intruder or potential predator approaches, they often fly away from the nest, acting injured to lure the intruder away and protect the nest. Another interesting fact is that these birds are monogamous, pairing for life. In Costa Rica, they’re known colloquially as “Paloma Montaraz Palida”.

6. Diet
The Pallid Dove’s diet consists primarily of seeds and small fruits. They forage on the ground, often taking advantage of fallen fruits and seeds that other animals leave behind.

7. Behavior & Sounds
This species is rather competitive when it comes to feeding and is known to defend its feeding grounds against others. It shows a preference for undercover areas where it can feed undisturbed. Pallid Doves are silent most of the time, only making a soft, low-pitched cooing sound during the early morning or late afternoon.

8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the Pallid Dove is listed as a species of “Least Concern”. This rating means the bird is not currently at significant risk of extinction in the wild.

9. Lifespan
The average lifespan of Pallid Doves in the wild is unknown. However, in captivity, they can live up to 10-15 years, when provided with the proper care.

10. Additional Notes
The Pallid Dove plays a crucial role in seed dispersal in the ecosystems it inhabits, ensuring the survival and regeneration of many plant species. Their predation, while it may seem destructive, actually aids in maintaining a balanced number of invertebrates in their environment, preventing overpopulation. These birds generally avoid human habitation but aren’t unusual sights in areas where forests meet human settlements. Their gentle demeanor and peaceful cooing are a soothing presence in the busy world of wild nature.