Bare-eyed Pigeon

Overview

The bare-eyed pigeon (Patagioenas corensis) is a species of pigeon found on the Caribbean coasts of Colombia and Venezuela, as well as the near-shore islands of Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Margarita, and Blanquilla. It is currently classified by the IUCN as a species of Least Concern, although it is heavily hunted.

Identification

• Males measure 32 to 37 cm and females 30 to 34.5 cm in length, weighing approximately 274 g.
• The head, neck, and breast are a distinctive mauve-pink, with an orange-brown eye surrounded by bare skin, a narrow blue ring, and a wider outer area of reddish brown.
• The neck and upper back have a bronze-black and pale brown scaled appearance, while the lower back and rump are pale bluish gray, with white on the chin and vent region.
• Its song consists of a rhythmic series of coos described as 'rwhoh...woh-hu-whOAh...'.

Habitat

This species primarily inhabits arid landscapes of thorn scrub, cactus, and acacia, though it is also found in mangroves and cultivated areas. It is generally found at low elevations, though it can reach as high as 400 m on the mainland. An introduced population has also established itself on the island of Saint Martin.

Diet

The bare-eyed pigeon feeds on the seeds and fruits of trees, vines, and cultivated crops. It conducts most of its foraging activities in trees and shrubs, but will also feed on the ground.

Did you know?

The nest is constructed as a fragile platform of twigs so thin that the species' single egg can be seen through it from below. Breeding cycles for the bird appear to be triggered by rain.