Common Emerald Dove

Overview

The common emerald dove, also known as the green dove or Asian emerald dove, is a widespread resident breeding pigeon native to the tropical and subtropical parts of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List and serves as the state bird of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Identification

• Stocky, medium-sized pigeon measuring 23–27 cm in length with bright emerald green back and wings.
• Blackish flight feathers and tail, with broad black and white bars visible on the lower back in flight.
• Dark vinous pink head and underparts that fade to greyish on the lower belly, with dark brown eyes, a bright red bill, and rufous legs and feet.
• Males possess a white patch on the shoulder edge and a grey crown, while females lack these features and have a browner complexion with a grey mark on the shoulder.

Habitat

This species inhabits tropical forests, similar dense wet woodlands, farms, and mangroves across a range that includes India to south China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesian and west Papuan islands, Sri Lanka, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Christmas Island, and islands off north New Guinea.

Diet

It searches for fallen fruit on the ground and spends little time in trees except when roosting. The dove eats seeds and fruits of a wide variety of plants and is generally tame and approachable.

Did you know?

The common emerald dove is a particularly good weaver when flying through forests, often moving through dense vegetation with fast, direct flight.