Afep Pigeon

Overview

The afep pigeon (Columba unicincta), also known as the African or grey woodpigeon, is a member of the family Columbidae. It is native to the African tropical rainforest, ranging from Sierra Leone east to Uganda.

Identification

• A medium-sized pigeon measuring 35–36 cm in length.
• Features a pinkish-grey body with dark grey wings, a pale grey hind neck, and white throat and belly.
• Distinctive tail with a broad white bar and a blackish tip.
• Bright red eyes and orbital rings.
• Emits a loud call sounding like 'doo doo doo' or 'whu whu whu whu-WHU'.

Habitat

Found in African tropical rainforests on either side of the Dahomey Gap. Primarily a lowland species, it occurs locally up to 1,600 m altitude in Cameroon and Uganda.

Diet

Mainly feeds on fruit, berries, grain, and seeds, though it is also known to eat termites.

Did you know?

The English name 'afep' is derived from the word for a pigeon in the Bulu language of Cameroon.