Russet-crowned Quail-Dove

Overview

The russet-crowned quail-dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae, classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN. It is native to specific regions of Panama and northwestern Colombia, with two recognised subspecies: the nominate Zentrygon goldmani and Z. g. oreas.

Identification

• Males measure 26.5 to 28.5 cm in length and adults weigh approximately 258 g; females are slightly smaller at 27 to 28 cm.
• Adults feature a russet brown crown and nape, a black malar stripe, and upperparts with a purple tinge, while the breast is grey and the belly whitish grey.
• Distinctive facial markings include an orange eye with a red rim, a red spot in front of the eye, and red legs and feet.
• The song is described as a single, slightly overslurred note 'wOuu' that may sound bi-syllabic.

Habitat

This species inhabits subtropical forest in foothills and lower highlands, typically at elevations between 750 and 1,600 m, though it can be found as low as 90 m in Colombia. The nominate subspecies is resident from eastern Panamá Province through Darién Province into extreme northwestern Colombia, while Z. g. oreas occupies eastern Panama west of the nominate range.

Diet

The russet-crowned quail-dove primarily feeds on seeds and usually forages on the forest floor.

Did you know?

The species has a complex taxonomic history, having been originally described in the genus Geotrygon, later moved to Oreopelia, and finally placed in its current genus, Zentrygon.