Species · GBIF taxon 2495494
Diamond Dove
Geopelia cuneataAlso known as Diamond Pigeon
These diminutive Australian doves are easily recognized by their blue-grey plumage, fine white wing spots, and striking orange-red eye rings. They forage on the ground in pairs or small groups, walking with a characteristic bobbing motion while searching for tiny grass seeds. During the breeding season, males perform an elaborate bowing display, raising their tails high to show off their patterned feathers while emitting a soft, mournful coo.
GranivorousArid-adaptedVocal
Licensed reference(c) Paul Korecky, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
- diet
- Small seeds from grasses and herbs, occasionally supplemented by ants.
- family
- Columbidae
- threats
- Habitat degradation from overgrazing, predation by feral cats, and severe prolonged droughts.
- life Span
- 3 to 5 years in the wild
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Waterhole Watching: Sit quietly near arid-zone waterholes early in the morning to watch them drink.
- Ground Scanning: Look for their distinctive bobbing tails as they forage quietly in short grass.