Imagine walking into your yard from the street. The cooing of doves around you soothes you. Doves are a diverse group of birds that may be found all around the globe. These birds are related to pigeons, as some individuals refer to them.
We’re not talking about pigeons in this article. Instead, we discuss the differences between doves and pigeons. You’ll have a better understanding of how scientists classify doves and the many different kinds of doves found all around the globe by the conclusion of the article.
How are the Types of Doves Classified
Doves are part of the pigeon family of birds. The Animalia Kingdom is where their scientific categorization starts. It’s a member of the Chordata Phylum, which extends all the way down. They are all birds, and they belong to the Aves Class.
The Columbidae family encompasses all doves. Under the larger Order Columbiformes, they are the only family.
The bodies of almost all members of this family are heavy, with short necks and thin beaks. This shape is more influenced by their way of life and diet than anything else. Despite their global presence, they have a lot in common.
In North America, as well as in Madagascar, it is frequently simple to determine whether a bird is a dove.
The Columbidae family includes a diverse group of birds. It is divided into roughly 50 genera, with 344 species of pigeons and doves. Although some species are common, others are endangered. That’s more than a 13-species total, and throughout history, several entire genera have gone extinct.
The Columbidae family’s overall categorization contains a number of mistakes. Scientists have a number of problems with how certain birds are classified. As we continue with the DNA testing, it becomes clearer which genera these birds belong to.
The most common subdivisions have been used throughout the article. We utilize the English language’s two subfamilies, which contain species we classify as doves. This family is surrounded by a lot of controversy. Subclades are reclassified as subfamilies by certain researchers. The Columbinae family of doves is then split into two groups.
We’ll be using the University of Michigan’s circa 2020 Museum of Zoology classification system and continuing with research. In other words, instead of John H Boyd’s 2007 research.
There has been a lot of back and forth, but reclassification takes time. The classifications are as accurate as possible as of the time of publication of the article.
We break out the subfamilies and their genera that exclusively include doves as you scroll further down the page. Among these genera, we highlight the best unusual, gorgeous, and intriguing species.
The Difference Between Doves and Pigeons
It’s a little surprising and subjective to divide doves from pigeons. Many times, they have the same families and genera. Although, there is no scientific distinction between these birds.
The language you speak is the most obvious distinction. Little Columbidae species are often referred to as doves, whereas bigger Columbidae species are referred to as pigeons. Even in English, that isn’t the case.
The term “pigeon” comes from the French term “pipio,” which means peeping chick, and was originally used in English. A Germanic term gives the word ‘dove.’ Rather than its shape, the term had to do with the bird’s flying pattern.
Birds in other cultures will be pigeons rather than doves, depending on the species. We’ve stayed with the English terms for the birds for this article. In general, anything that we call a dove has found its way into this article. For another occasion, we save pigeons.
The Subfamilies of Doves and Notable Species
The majority of doves belong to a single major subfamily. Columbinae is what they are called. Three additional doves species are included in the Treroninae.
We highlight the genera that are included in each of the families as we dig into each of them. Next, we remove some of the most magnificent dove species. We showcase doves of various sorts, both the most frequent and those that are unusual or uncommon.
Let’s get started!
1.0 Columbinae Subfamily
All of the known pigeon and dove species belong to the Columbinae subfamily, which is the biggest of the five. Just the Columbinae and Treroninae species include doves, which are the only two species.
With a few exceptions, the majority of these genera only include one or two species.
1.1 Chalcophaps
Three species of Dove belong to the Chalcophaps genus, which are known as Emerald Doves. Australasia and Indomalaya are home to these birds.
1.1.1 COMMON EMERALD DOVE (CHALCOPHAPS INDICA)
The most typical bird associated with this genus is the Common Emerald Dove. They colonized much of India, as well as China and several Indonesian islands. Grey-capped Emerald Doves are the zoologists’ name for them. They are more of a pigeon than a dove in some parts of Indomalaya.
These birds have become the official state bird of Tamil Nadu, one of India’s provinces, and are now widely recognized.
When George Edwards arrived in the region in 1743, the western world first saw these birds. It became a emblem of India for many Europeans after ending up in his book A Natural History of Rare Birds.
1.1.2 PACIFIC EMERALD DOVE (CHALCOPHAPS LONGIROSTRIS)
The Brown-capped Emerald Dove is another name for the Pacific Emerald Dove. The colors of the head caps of both the indica and the sativa varieties are virtually identical. Because of their similar coloring, they are frequently confused.
The rainforest and wet woodlands are home to this kind of dove. With emerald wings and a back, they are stocky doves. Australia is where they are most common. They’re nearly as ubiquitous as the common pigeon in Europe and North America, where they’re virtually ubiquitous.
1.1.3 STEPHAN’S EMERALD DOVE (CHALCOPHAPS STEPHANI)
This genus has a less common species, the Stephan’s Emerald Dove. The wings of these birds are less green. The female is blue and grey in color, and she is larger. The male is substantially more vibrant. Its body is covered in varying grays, creams, and browns, with a grey cap and green wings.
1.2 Claravis
The Claravis genus contains three different kinds of birds. All three species belong to the genus Colorful Ground Doves, which is the general name for all three species.
1.2.1 PURPLE-WINGED GROUND DOVE (CLARAVIS GODEFRIDA)
One of the lesser common doves is the Purple-Winged Ground Dove. They are designated as critically endangered species. According to researchers, this species’ population has dwindled to around 50 individuals.
They’re uncommon, hence you won’t encounter them. These are forest-dwelling creatures native to Brazil’s south-eastern Atlantic coast. They may be found in Paraguay and Argentina as well. The primary causes of this bird’s endangerment are the wild bird trade and habitat loss.
1.2.2 MAROON-CHESTED GROUND DOVE (CLARAVIS MONDETOURA)
Since they live in such isolated areas of the globe, little is known about the Maroon-chested ground dove. They can be found in montane forests all over Central and South America. In Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru, that makes them stand out among the mountains. The conservation status of these animals is Least Concern, despite their easy identification.
1.2.3 BLUE GROUND DOVE (CLARAVIS PRETIOSA)
The most prevalent and well-known species in this genus is the Blue Ground Dove. They’re one of the tiniest doves around. From south Mexico to Peru and Argentina, they have a wide range.
The female blue ground dove is virtually totally red-brown. The name fits the guy better. They’re a lovely bird with a variety of light and dark blue hues. The birds prefer more humid woodland environments. They have the greatest range and population of any Claravis species.
1.3 Columbina
All small doves native to the New World are found in the Columbina genus of birds. From southern North America to the tip of South America, these species may be found. In the open countryside, you’ll frequently find them in pairs or flocks. Pinkish legs are seen in the majority of these species, with black-and-white wing designs.
1.3.1 COMMON GROUND DOVE (COLUMBINA PASSERINA)
The most commonly seen bird in this genus is the Common Ground Dove. They can be found across most of the United States, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Like most ground doves, they spend the majority of their time walking on the ground. They have the capacity to fly.
A pigeon species looks to be the epitome of stereotypes. Their heads and breasts are pinkish. The remaining pearls and brown are various hues. This species is home to a variety of subspecies. They are split across the world and have diverged from the original species in small ways.
1.3.2 CROAKING GROUND DOVE (COLUMBINA CRUZIANA)
The bill of the Croaking Ground Dove is particularly impressive. Their color is vivid, not like that of most doves, who have a little brown color. Bright orange leads into charcoal on the half closest to their face. The Common Ground Dove is the reference for the remainder of their body. In addition, they have a similar range.
1.3.3 INCA DOVE (COLUMBINA INCA)
The Mexican Dove is another name for the Inca Dove. It was first described in 1847 by a French physician. In comparison to most obese doves, this species has a slender body. Ground doves have a scaled pattern on their feathers that is more frequent. Brown with a pink tinge, these birds are mostly brown. Their pattern is intended to blend in with their surroundings rather than to attract attention.
1.3.4 OTHER COLUMBINA DOVES
- Columbina buckleyi, also known as Ecuadorian Ground Dove
- Columbina cyanopis, also known as the Blue-eyed Ground Dove
- Columbina minuta, Plain-Breasted Ground Dove
- Columbina picui is the name of a
- ground dove.
- Columbina squammata is a scaled Dove.
- Columbina talpacoti, also known as Ruddy Ground Dove.
1.4 Gallicolumba
Gallicolumba is a little subfamily of doves, according to some experts. They are, however, classified as a genus within the Columbinae Subfamily for the most part. The forests of the Philippines are home to all of these species. The ground doves covered above are not closely related to them. They are, nonetheless, considered a dove since their closest genetic relative is the Thick-billed Ground Pigeon.
It’s been a point of contention whether this genus should contain certain species. The bleeding-heart doves are mostly found in the genus. These birds appear to have been stabbed in the breast. Since they haven’t seen them since the 1990s, there are a couple that might be extinct.
1.4.1 SULAWESI GROUND DOVE (GALLICOLUMBA TRISTIGMATA)
One of the few Ground Doves in this genus that does not have a red patch on its breast is the Sulawesi Ground Dove. Instead, their breast is a brilliant yellow, and their head has a broad yellow patch. A purple patch beside their ears also adorns these exquisite birds. These markings make them seem to be wearing headphones.
The elusive nature of this species makes it difficult to find. The birds are found only in Indonesia, and they are mostly found in the Wallacea rainforests of Sulawesi. They are classified as Least Concern, despite their difficulty to locate.
1.4.2 LUZON BLEEDING-HEART (GALLICOLUMBA LUZONICA)
This genus contains the Luzon Bleeding-Heart, which is a common species. A stab wound to the neck appears to be present. It is just a survival mechanism that has evolved. Greyish with black wing bands, the remainder of their body is greyish.
The bird’s name is derived from the area where it was discovered. Luzon, a Philippine island, is home to these species. Except when they nest and are extremely shy, they seldom leave the ground.
1.4.3 OTHER GALLICOLUMBA SPECIES
- Gallicolumba rufigula, sometimes known as Cinnamon Ground Dove
- Gallicolumba crinigera, Mindanao Bleeding-Heart
- Galanicolumba platenae, Mindoro Bleeding-Heart
- Gallicolumba keayi is a species of Impulse bird that bleeds hearts.
- Gllicolbuma menagei, also known as the Sulu Bleeding-Heart
1.5 Geopelia
The genus Geopelia is rather modest in size. It contains just five species of birds, three of which are extremely similar. The Zebra and Diamond Doves are two of the most common doves kept in captivity. These ground doves are named after the Zebra Dove.
They are all long-tailed, distinguishing them from other ground species. They live in the open countryside and are native to Australasia.
1.5.1 ZEBRA DOVE (GEOPELIA STRIATA)
This genus’s type species is the Zebra Dove. Their stripes, which go from their neck to their wings, gave them the name zebra-like. They’re brown in color, with the exception of black-and-white barring.
These doves are popular pets because of their lovely breed. Their call is a gentle, staccato sound. Even if they aren’t one of the most gorgeous doves, their cooing is very calming. They were introduced to many different places, despite having a small natural range. They now live in Mauritius, Hawaii, Borneo, and other islands with comparable climates, after formerly living in Indomalaysia.
1.5.2 DIAMOND DOVE (GEOPELIA CUNEATA)
Another popular species in this genus is the Diamond Dove. They prefer to live near water, and they are quite common in Australia. They are a small dove native to Australia. The white speckles that cover their wings give them the moniker Diamond, which they share.
Doves are most often seen waddling around on the ground. Depending on what they’re trying to communicate, they have a soft coo and various falsetto calls. Seeds are their primary food, although they will also pick ants.
1.5.3 OTHER GEOPELIA SPECIES
- Geopelia placida, also known as the Peaceful Dove, is a bird that lives in Australia.
- Geopelia maugeus, or Barred Dove
- Geopelia humeralis, Bar-Shouldered Dove
1.6 Geotrygon
Quail-doves are the name for the Geotrygon genus. From Mexico to the West Indies, they all live in the neotropics. The majority of these birds are ground-dwelling.
In English, the Geotrygon family is known as droves. They would have a different Greek name. They have waddled their way into this article because they are named doves. Geo- is ancient Greek for “ground,” while “treron” means “pigeon.”
1.6.1 CRESTED QUAIL-DOVE (GEOTRYGON VERSICOLOR)
The Geotrygon genus was named after this bird. They’re only found in subtropical montane forests in Jamaica, though they may be found in other parts of the island. They have been moved from Least Concern to Near Threatened as time has passed. Because of habitat destruction, their numbers continue to fall.
The body and cheek of these birds are purple in color, with yellow stripes. The beak is narrow and bent. Their diet of tiny grass seeds and berries is perfectly suited for it.
1.6.2 KEY WEST QUAIL-DOVE (GEOTRYGON CHRYSIA)
The Key West quail-dove is a magnificent sight with its vivid colors. Except for Jamaica, they are native to the Bahamas. They bred in the Florida Keys for years. They got their common moniker as a result of this. They no longer breed there due to climate and habitat changes. As a vagrant, they are still uncommon in the keys, though this is becoming less so.
The back of these birds is dark, and the wings are similar in color. Their crown and neck are adorned with amethyst hues and greens. They have a purple iridescent sheen on their tall and mantle. Their prominent white stripe beneath the eye makes it simple to tell them apart.
1.6.3 OTHER GEOTRYGON DOVES
- Geotrygon caniceps, also known as Grey-fronted Quail-Dove
- The Puerto Rican Quail-Dove (Geotrygon larva) has gone extinct.
- White-fronted Quail-Dove (Geotrygon leucometopius)
- Geotrygon montana, also known as Ruddy Quail-Dove
- Geotrygon mystacea, or Bridled Quail-Dove
- Geotrygon pupurata, also known as the Purple Quail-
- DoveSapphire Quail-Dove (Geotrygon saphirina)
- Geotrygon violacea is a species of violaceous quail-dove.
1.7 Leptotila
Like with many other Columbidae species, the Leptotila birds are ground-foraging doves. They can be found all throughout the Americas. The Zenaidini subclade encompasses these birds. The Zentrygon and Zenaida species are their closest relatives. This genus contains 11 distinct species.
1.7.1 WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (LEPTOTILA VERREAUXI)
A tropical bird, the White-Tipped Dove The genus was first described by French naturalists, and their scientific name reflects this. On the IUCN Red List, these doves are classified as Least Concern. They have a broader selection of products. From southern Texas to southern South America, it encompasses the whole thing.
This species’ geographical range is vast. As a result, many White-tipped Dove species split from the main. Scrub, forests, and woodlands are where they call home. Other doves may be difficult to distinguish from these birds. Gray with a crimson or blue iris ring, they have the majority of their body.
1.7.2 GRENADA DOVE (LEPTOTILA WELLSI)
Grenada’s national bird is the Grenada Dove. They are, nevertheless, one of the world’s most endangered pigeon species. The names “Pea Dove” and “Well’s Dove” are also given to them.
The other doves in the genus appear to be quite similar. Because of habitat destruction, they are becoming endangered. The species lived at the end of the Pleistocene epoch. Dry woodlands and xeric scrub environments were where they lived. Since then, they’ve altered significantly and are now quite rare.
1.7.3 OTHER LEPTOTILA SPECIES
- Leptotila megalura is the Yungas Dove.
- (Leptotila rufaxilla) Grey-fronted Dove
- Leptotila plumbeiceps is a grey-headed Dove.
- Leptotila pallida is the scientific name for the Pallid Dove.
- Leptotila battyi (Azuera Dove)
- The Caribbean Dove, Leptotila jamaicensis, is another name for the same species.
- Leptotila cassinii, or the Grey-chested Dove
- Leptotila ochraceiventris, also known as the Ochre-bellied Dove
- Leptotila conoveri Tolima Dove
1.8 Macropygia
Cuckoo-doves belong to the Macropygia genus, which is one of three genera. The brown plumage of this genus is long-tailed and mostly. In Indomalaysia and Australia, these birds are the most common.
In the 1800s, an English scientist named William John Swainson was the first to bring them up. For their long tails, he named them Macropygia, which is a combination of Ancient Greek and means “long-rumped.”
Within this genus, there exist two extinct species. The Huahine and Marquesan Cuckoo-doves are among them.
1.8.1 BROWN CUCKOO-DOVE (MACROPYGIA PHASIANELLA)
The genus’s type species is the Brown cuckoo-dove. They have a brownish-tan coloration all over their bodies. They are found all throughout Australia.
Their names are sometimes interchangeable. It’s also possible to refer to them as “brown pigeons” or “pheasant pigeons,” which are two terms that are interchangeable.
These birds, maybe, are the current type species. They were initially classified as one species with the slender-billed cuckoo-dove. This species was divided into three different species by scientists in 2016. The Brown cuckoo-dove is one of them.
1.8.2 RUDDY CUCKOO-DOVE (MACROPYGIA EMILIANA)
The Macropygia genus includes the Ruddy cuckoo-dove. The Brown cuckoo-dove has a similar shape and size to these birds. The color of their plumage differs. The ruddy cuckoo-dove is a rusty brown, while other cuckoo-doves are a tan, filthy brown.
They are one of the most appealing species in this genus due to their gleaming orange-ish plumage. Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia are all home to these people. In the IUCN Red List, these birds are listed as Least Concern.
1.8.3 OTHER MACROPYGIA SPECIES
- Macropygia amboinensis is a cuckoo-dove from Amboyna.
- Philippine cuckoo-dove (Macropygia tenuirostris)
- The Sultan’s cuckoo-dove (Macropygia doreya)
- Macropygia timorlaoensis, also known as the Tanimbar cuckoo-dove.
- (Macropygia cinnamomea) Enggano cuckoo-dove
- Macropygia modiglianii, a Barusan cuckoo-dove
- The Bar-tailed Cuckoo-Dove (Macropygia nigrirostris)
- Timor cuckoo-dove (Macropygia magna)
- Macropygia macassariensis, the Flores Sea cuckoo-dove
- Macropygia unchall, barred Cuckoo-Dove
- Andaman cuckoo-dove (Macropygia rufipennis)
- Macropygia mackinlayi, MacKatlay’s cuckoo-dove
- Macropygia ruficeps, the little cuckoo-dove
1.9 Metriopelia
Among the dove family’s most well-known and studied birds is the Metriopelia genus. They only live in the Andes mountains’ highland habitats, which are quite dry. The network extends over the majority of the country’s Western side.
The birds in this genus, for the most part, have large wings that are efficient in thinner air. Their skin around their eyes is also typically orange.
1.9.1 BLACK-WINGED GROUND DOVE (METRIOPELIA MELANOPTERA)
This genus’ type species is the Black-winged ground dove. From Argentina through Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, they have a natural habitat. They have high humidity in their natural habitats. In addition, they dwell in tropical environments, such as mountain forests or high-altitude shrubland.
The black tail and wingtips of these birds are the most prominent feature. Their eyes are also orange, which is a common trait.
1.9.2 OTHER METRIOPELIA SPECIES
- Metriopelia ceciliae, or the bare-face ground dove
- Metriopelia aymara, a golden-spotted ground dove
- Metriopelia moenoi, Moreno’s ground dove
1.10 Oena
The Namaqua Dove is the only species in this genus. The form and stature of most doves are quite different from this one. The reason for this divergence is most likely due to its distribution. Australasia and the Americas are home to a number of diving species. Rather than Sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and Arabia, this species can be found across much of the continent.
1.10.1 NAMAQUA DOVE (OENA CAPENSIS)
This genus is home to just one species, the Namaqua dove. Doves in the Turtur genus are their closest relatives throughout the whole family. These doves might even be more suited to that genus than they are to holding their own, according to some research.
These birds are tiny, around the size of a sparrow rather than a typical dove. Their tail is tapered and quite long. They have a grey body with chestnut feathers and a black tail. This breed is simple to determine whether it’s a guy or a lady. The beak of the male is crimson and yellow. The females are gray with a crimson beak and lack the black.
This species is divided into two subspecies. Madagascar is home to a distinct group of people who live throughout Arabia and Africa.
1.11 Reinwardtoena
Another one of those with cuckoo-doves is the Reinwardtoena genus. The genus of doves is rather small. Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Solomon Islands are all home to them. They were introduced to the wider world by Charles Lucien Bonaparte, a French naturalist. Caspar Georg Carl Reinwardt, a German naturalist, is the namesake of the genus.
1.11.1 GREAT CUCKOO-DOVE (REINWARDTOENA REINWARDTI)
This genus’s type species is the Great cuckoo-dove. The little bird is a more colorful variant of the Brown cuckoo-dove. The head and chest are grey-white in color. Their wings and body fade from black to rusty red color as they mature. They have a red tail as well.
The Maluka Islands and New Guinea are home to these cuckoo-doves. On rocks beside waterfalls, they construct their tiny nests. Native Papau New Guinean tribes used their flight and cries to their advantage. In the rhythm of the Kaluli drummer, they even developed a dance that reflected this flight.
1.11.2 OTHER REINWARDTOENA SPECIES
- Pied cuckoo-dove (Reinwardtoena browni)
- Crested cuckoo-dove (Reinwardtoena crassirostris)
1.12 Starnoenas
Another of those that have just one species is the Starnoenas genus. Almost any other pigeon or dove is separated from the bird. As a result, they have developed in distinct ways. As a result, within their genus, they are monotypic.
1.12.1 BLUE-HEADED QUAIL-DOVE (STARNOENAS CYANOCEPHALA)
Cuba is home to the Blue-headed quail-dove. These birds seem to be a mix of a quail and a dove when it comes to appearance. Because of the degradation of their habitat, they are on the IUCN Red list. These birds were first described by Eleazer Albin in 1734.
When genetic analysis revealed that these birds are more closely linked to Australasian species than New World species, it was exciting. The birds are terrestrial birds that live on land. They have a light blue crown and are cinnamon-brown in color. Black and white facial stripes, as well as mottling on their sides, are also visible.
1.13 Streptopelia
Several of the most well-known species in the western world are found among the Streptopelia species. Collared doves and turtle doves are both members of this genus. Throughout Europe and the United States, these species are well-known.
The bodies of most of these species are pearly brown, with pink chests and bellies. On the neck of many of them, there’s a black-and-white patch. This location serves as a quick genus identifier.
1.13.1 EUROPEAN TURTLE DOVE (STREPTOPELIA TURTUR)
One of many species in this larger genus is the European Turtle Dove. They migrate to the sub-Saharan area during the winter and are found across North Africa.
It’s fairly simple to tell these birds apart. Around their eyes, they have crimson skin. They have a brown body that is predominantly light. Black and white stripes run down their backs. Chestnut and deep brown are the colors of their wings. It’s a fairly textured species overall. On the IUCN list of endangered species, they are also a vulnerable species.
1.13.2 EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE (STREPTOPELIA DECAOCTO)
Much of Europe and Asia is home to the Eurasian collared dove. Over time, they’ve gotten more common. This species is adaptable and fast to colonize new areas. The Caribbean and North America have both accepted it. It is classified as Least Concern because of its large global population.
These doves are quite stunning. They have a head with a pearly-brown color. The stark contrast between their black and white hair on their backs is what stands out. Sadly, these birds are considered invasive in North America by zoologists.
1.13.3 OTHER STREPTOPELIA SPECIES
- Streptopelia lugens, the dusky turtle dove
- Streptopelia hypopyrrha, or Adamawa turtle dove
- Streptopelia decipiens is a mourning collared dove.
- Streptopelia orientalis, commonly known as the Oriental turtle dove
- (Streptopelia bitorquata) Sunda collared doves
- Streptopelia semitorquata, also known as the red-eyed dove
- Streptopelia dusumieri, the Philippine collared dove
- Streptopelia capicola is a ring-necked dove.
- Streptopelia roseogrisea, or African collared dove
- Streptopelia vinacea is a species of vinous dove.
- Streptopelia reichenowi, also known as the white-winged collared dove
- Streptopelia tranquebarica is a small red bird with a black collared neck.
1.14 Turacoena
Two species of doves belong to this genus, both of which are stunning in appearance. These birds are found only in Indonesia, but they can be found around the world in zoos.
1.14.1 WHITE-FACED CUCKOO-DOVE (TURACOENA MANADENSIS)
The brilliant body and white face of the White-faced cuckoo-dove Their tail feathers are also rather lengthy and robust. They shimmer in the sun, their bodies hues of blues, greens, and purples. Outside of a zoo, these birds are quite difficult to locate.
1.15 Turtur
Wood doves belong to the Turtur genus. These birds were first introduced in 1783 by Dutch naturalist Pieter Boddaert. This genus was originally made up of just the Blue-spotted wood dove. Zoologists later added four more species to the genus, bringing the total to five.
1.15.1 BLACK-BILLED WOOD DOVE (TURTUR ABYSSINICUS)
The Black-billed wood dove is found across much of Africa, from South Africa to Egypt. They dwell in communities adjacent to desert-like savannah and scrubland. Acacia trees are where you’ll most often find them nesting. The black band on the bank, the black beak, and the black spots on their wings distinguish these plump pigeons.
1.15.2 TAMBOURINE DOVE (TURTUR TYMPANISTRIA)
The Tambourine dove is a common species, which is why it is on our list. Its distinctive colorations make it a living sight in Africa. Woodlands, gardens, and plantations are all preferred habitats for these birds. They are a bit skittish even while surrounded by human activity.
The top portion of the doves’ bodies is darker brown, with a brilliant white chest and belly. Their wings have big purple patches, and their beak is purple as well. The call of the dove, a persistent dududu-du-du-du-du, gives it its popular name.
1.15.3 OTHER TURTUR SPECIES
- Turtur chalcospilos, the emerald-spotted wood dove
- Turtur afer, also known as the blue-spotted wood dove
- Turtur brehmeri, a blue-headed wood dove
1.16 Uropelia
Just one species belongs to the Uropelia genus.
1.16.1 LONG-TAILED GROUND DOVE (UROPELIA CAMPESTRIS)
This family’s sole member is the Long-tailed ground dove. When compared to other doves, it seems to be quite unique. It has the appearance of a sparrow with a dove’s head. It has a tiny body. Its eyes and foot are yellow, and it has a bright yellow circle around them. Its wings are covered in black and white speckles, and it has a light tan body.
In Brazil and Bolivia, these birds may be found in the cerrano. They live in a tropical savanna that gets periodically flooded but is otherwise fairly arid.
1.17 Zenaida
The wife of French naturalist Charles Lucien Bonaparte is honored with the Zenaida genus. The Zenaida dove is the type species of this genus. The genetics of the genus doves and pigeons are fascinating. The Zentrygon, Leptotila, and Leptotrygon are among them. DNA testing is still used to better understand their relationship.
1.17.1 ZENAIDA DOVE (ZENAIDA AURITA)
The genus Zenaida Dove has more than one type species. Anguilla’s national bird is also called that. These birds are locally known as turtle doves, even if they aren’t in English. Only the Caribbean and the Yucatan Peninsula are home to these doves. The Petenes mangroves, for example, are where they prefer to live.
These doves have a huge population despite their limited range. As a result, they are frequently hunted as game birds in Florida.
1.17.2 MOURNING DOVE (ZENAIDA MACROURA)
This genus also includes the Mourning Dove, one of the most well-known doves in North America. Another famous game bird in North America is this species. Many of the birds’ names are known to humans. Rain Dove, Turtle Dove, Carolina Pigeon, and the Carolina Turtledove are among them.
This bird is a prolific breeder in warm climates, keeping its population stable. Between 20 and 70 million of these birds are shot in North America every year. Despite this, the population of these animals is still considered to be in low danger.
1.17.3 OTHER ZENAIDA SPECIES
- Zenaida asiatica, also known as the white-winged dove
- Zenaida auriculata, or Eared Dove
- *Zenaida graysoni, the Socorro dove, is now extinct in the wild.
- Zenaida meloda, a West Peruvian dove
2.0 Treroninae Subfamily
As we have seen, the Columbinae subfamily is home to the majority of doves across the globe, as well as a large number of species and populations. Under the Columbidae flag, there are five different subfamilies. Treroninae is the only other one that has doves. Just three of the ten genera in the family contain doves.
2.1 Drepanoptila
Only one species of the Drepanoptila genera is designated as Near Threatened. The color of these birds differs considerably from that of doves. The Treroninae subfamily of doves and pigeons has a peculiar fascination with bright colors.
2.1.1 CLOVEN-FEATHERED DOVE (DREPANOPTILA HOLOSERICEA)
This genus has just one species, the cloven-feathered dove. They should be classified with the Ptilinopus species, according to zoologists. Their genus has yet to be preserved.
New Caledonia’s forests are home to these birds. The stomach and tail feathers are yellow, and the whole body is green. They wear a white shirt that goes around their torso. The population of fewer than 140,000 birds is threatened by habitat degradation and hunting.
2.2 Phapitreron
The Phapiteron genus’ species are practically entirely brown, defying the subfamily’s stereotype. They can be found in the trees and are only found in the Philippines. In this section of the globe, they are distinguished from the numerous other ground-dwelling animals.
2.2.1 WHITE-EARED BROWN DOVE (PHAPITRERON LEUCOTIS)
This genus includes four species. This genus’s type species is the white-eared brown dove. The red feet are the most vivid part of the bird’s body. Their beaks are likewise a little blue, and their eyes have a white line.
2.2.2. OTHER PHAPITRERON TYPES OF DOVES
- Phapitreron amethystinus is a species of amethyst brown dove.
- (Phapitreron cinereiceps) Tawitawi Brown Dove
- The Mindanao Brown Dove (Phapitreron brunneiceps)
2.3 Ptilinopus
The biggest genus of doves is Ptilinopus. Due to their beauty, these birds are frequently kept in captivity. Nearly all of these species are colorful and range in color. Bright green to orange and pink are the colors of their plumage.
Fruit doves are the name given to almost all of these doves. There are 55 distinct species, as well as several subspecies that have become extinct, spread out across the world. Tropical and forested environments are home to these doves.
2.3.1 ROSE-CROWNED FRUIT DOVE (PTILINOPUS REGINA)
This genus’s type species is the Rose-Crowned Fruit Dove. It reflects a variety of hues present on these birds in the genus. Their rose-colored crown matches their name. Orange, pink, blue, and green are the colors of their chest and stomach.
Throughout Australia and portions of Indonesia, the Rose-Crowned Fruit Dove may be found. They are classified as Least Concern because they are widespread across this region.
2.3.2 ORANGE FRUIT DOVE (PTILINOPUS VICTOR)
The flame dove is another moniker for the Orange Fruit Dove. They’re one of the most colorful of the fruit doves and have short tails. Males have olive heads and are completely orange in coloration. From the head to the tail, females are dark green. Undertails are orange-yellow. This bird’s body feathers are unusual in that they are virtually hair-like.
Another IUCN Least Concern species is the Orange Fruit Dove. The majority of Fiji’s islands are home to these species. Allopatric refers to the geographic separation of this species from others.
- Banded fruit dove (Ptilinopus cinctus)
- Black-banded fruit dove (Ptilinopus alligator)
- Red-naped fruit dove (Ptilinopus dohertyi)
- Pink-headed fruit dove (Ptilinopus porphyreus)
- Flame-breasted fruit dove (Ptilinopus marchei)
- Cream-breasted fruit dove (Ptilinopus merrilli)
- Yellow-breasted fruit dove (Ptilinopus occipitalis)
- Red-eared fruit dove (Ptilinopus fischeri)
- Jambu fruit dove (Ptilinopus jambu)
- Banggai fruit dove (Ptilinopus subgularis)
- Oberholser’s fruit dove (Ptilinopus epia)
- Sula fruit dove (Ptilinopus mangoliensis)
- Black-chinned fruit dove (Ptilinopus leclancheri)
- Scarlet-breasted fruit dove (Ptilinopus bernsteinii)
- Wompoo fruit dove (Ptilinopus magnificus)
- Pink-spotted fruit dove (Ptilinopus perlatus)
- Ornate fruit dove (Ptilinopus ornatus)
- Tanna fruit dove (Ptilinopus tannensis)
- Orange-fronted fruit dove (Ptilinopus aurantiifrons)
- Wallace’s fruit dove (Ptilinopus wallacii)
- Superb fruit dove (Ptilinopus superbus)
- Many-colored fruit dove (Ptilinopus perousii)
- Crimson-crowned fruit dove (Ptilinopus porphyraceus)
- Purple-capped fruit dove (Ptilinopus ponapensis)
- Kosrae fruit dove (Ptilinopus hernsheimi)
- Palau fruit dove (Ptilinopus pelewensis)
- Lilac-crowned fruit dove (Ptilinopus rarotongensis)
- Mariana fruit dove (Ptilinopus roseicapilla)
- Silver-capped fruit dove (Ptilinopus richardsii)
- Grey-green fruit dove (Ptilinopus purpuratus)
- Raiatea fruit-dove (Ptilinopus purpuratus chrysogaster)
- Makatea fruit dove (Ptilinopus chalcurus)
- Atoll fruit dove (Ptilinopus coralensis)
- Red-bellied fruit dove (Ptilinopus greyi)
- Rapa fruit dove (Ptilinopus huttoni)
- White-capped fruit dove (Ptilinopus dupetithouarsii)
- Red-moustached fruit dove (Ptilinopus mercierii) *extinct
- Henderson fruit dove (Ptilinopus insularis)
- Coroneted fruit dove (Ptilinopus coronulatus)
- Beautiful fruit dove (Ptilinopus pulchellus)
- Blue-capped fruit dove (Ptilinopus monacha)
- White-bibbed fruit dove (Ptilinopus rivoli)
- Yellow-bibbed fruit dove (Ptilinopus solomonensis)
- Claret-breasted fruit dove (Ptilinopus viridis)
- White-headed fruit dove (Ptilinopus eugeniae)
- Lompobattang fruit-dove (Ptilinopus meridionalis)
- Orange-bellied fruit dove (Ptilinopus iozonus)
- Knob-billed fruit dove (Ptilinopus insolitus)
- Grey-headed fruit dove (Ptilinopus hyogaster)
- Carunculated fruit dove (Ptilinopus granulifrons)
- Black-naped fruit dove (Ptilinopus melanospilus)
- Dwarf fruit dove (Ptilinopus nainus)
- Negros fruit dove (Ptilinopus arcanus) *possibly extinct
- Golden fruit dove (Ptilinopus luteovirens)
- Whistling fruit dove (Ptilinopus layardi)
Interesting Facts about Doves
1| Almost all the hundreds of species of doves share the same diet.
The doves and pigeons are one of the few families of birds that have a similar shape and size. Dove species come in a variety of colors, but they don’t vary much. In the majority of cases, they eat the same foods.
Berries, grains, and seeds are the most common foods for doves. Insects and snails are less common foods for them, but they do eat them.
2|Mourning doves are one of the few migratory species.
Dove species can be found in almost every corner of the globe. Doves are mostly attracted to tropical climes. The mourning dove is a bird that can be found across the United States. They are one of the few doves that migrate during the winter, staying safe and warm.
3|Flocks of doves live by a dominance hierarchy.
Doves are a solitary species, with a few exceptions. Only a few of them reside with their spouse. Among big flocks, there are several more. As we all know, a group of people is more secure!
A hierarchy governs the doves that reside in flocks, which may number in the thousands. Almost every animal group, and even people, have dominance hierarchies. When they roost together at night, it’s easiest to see where they’re in the hierarchy.