Scaly-naped pigeon

Appearance

The scaly-naped pigeon is a large slate grey pigeon , with maroon coloured plumage around the neck. The plumage on the species' nape appears scaly, explaining both the common and scientific names of the species. There is a bare patch of skin which surrounds the birds red eyes; this patch tends to be reddish in males and more yellow in females. The legs and the base of the bill of the species are red, while the remainder of the bill is light coloured.

Distribution

The range of the scaly-naped pigeon includes both the Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles. The species tends to occur in rain forests, however it may also be found in drier lowland woodlands; the species is locally common near human settlements.

Behavior

Scaly-naped pigeons are usually found alone or in small groups. They feed in trees an on the ground and often mix with the rock dove, eared dove and the zenaida dove. Like most doves they are wary and will flee if the feel in danger.

Habitat

The range of the scaly-naped pigeon includes both the Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles. The species tends to occur in rain forests, however it may also be found in drier lowland woodlands; the species is locally common near human settlements.

Reproduction

The scaly-naped pigeon lays one to two eggs in a nest constructed mostly in trees.

Food

The species feeds primarily on the fruits and seeds of trees.