Kingdom Animalia Order Columbiformes Genus Patagioenas Higher classification Patagioenas | Phylum Chordata Family Columbidae Scientific name Patagioenas squamosa Rank Species | |
 | ||
Similar Pigeons and doves, Bird, Patagioenas, Bridled quail‑dove, Zenaida dove | ||
Scaly naped pigeon patagioneas squamosa
The scaly-naped pigeon (Patagioenas squamosa), also known as the red-necked pigeon, is a bird belonging to the family Columbidae. The species occurs throughout the Caribbean.
Contents
- Scaly naped pigeon patagioneas squamosa
- Paloma turca scaly naped pigeon patagioenas squamosa
- Description
- Distribution and habitat
- Behaviour
- Reproduction
- Diet
- References
Paloma turca scaly naped pigeon patagioenas squamosa
Description
The scaly-naped pigeon is a large slate grey pigeon (14–16 in), with maroon coloured plumage around the neck. The plumage on the species' nape appears scaly, explaining both the common and scientific names of the species. There is a bare patch of skin which surrounds the birds red eyes; this patch tends to be reddish in males and more yellow in females. The legs and the base of the bill of the species are red, while the remainder of the bill is light coloured.
Distribution and habitat
The range of the scaly-naped pigeon includes both the Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles. The species tends to occur in rain forests, however it may also be found in drier lowland woodlands; the species is locally common near human settlements.
Behaviour
Scaly-naped pigeons are usually found alone or in small groups. They feed in trees an on the ground and often mix with the rock dove, eared dove and the zenaida dove. Like most doves they are wary and will flee if the feel in danger.
Reproduction
The scaly-naped pigeon lays one to two eggs in a nest constructed mostly in trees.
Diet
The species feeds primarily on the fruits and seeds of trees.
