Caribbean Dove
Leptotila jamaicensis
Tórtola Caribeña
Song
Caribbean Dove
The Caribbean Dove (Leptotila jamaicensis). Read In Spanish
Appearance: The Caribbean Dove is a small to medium-sized bird with a length of around 25 cm. It has a generally uniform cinnamon-brown plumage with a slightly paler belly. The eyes are bright red, the bill is black, and the legs are a reddish color. This species is known for its gentle and melodious cooing calls.
Habitat: Caribbean Doves are typically found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, scrublands, mangroves, and agricultural areas. They can be seen in both lowland and hilly regions, preferring areas with sufficient cover and access to food sources.
Behavior: These doves are primarily ground-feeders, foraging for seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates in the leaf litter and undergrowth. They are generally shy and secretive birds, often staying hidden in dense vegetation to avoid predators. Caribbean Doves may occur in pairs or small groups and are known for their peaceful and non-aggressive behavior.
Breeding: Caribbean Doves typically build their nests in trees or shrubs, constructing a simple platform of twigs and leaves. The female usually lays one or two eggs, which both parents incubate for about two weeks. Both parents participate in caring for the young chicks, feeding them regurgitated seeds and insects.
Conservation Status: The conservation status of the Caribbean Dove in Colombia is currently of least concern, according to the IUCN Red List.
Distribution
The Caribbean Dove (Leptotila jamaicensis)
Caribbean Region: The Caribbean Dove is named after this region, suggesting a significant presence in this area. Coastal areas along the Caribbean Sea, including San Andres y Providencia. These doves are likely found in a variety of habitats in the coastal region, ranging from mangroves to agricultural areas.
Taxonomy
The Caribbean Dove (Leptotila jamaicensis)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Columbiformes
- Family: Columbidae
- Genus: Leptotila
- Species: Leptotila jamaicensis
Vocalization
The Caribbean Dove (Leptotila jamaicensis), is a species of dove found in the Caribbean region. These doves are known for their gentle cooing sounds, typical of many dove species. The vocalizations of Caribbean Doves mainly consist of soft, rhythmic cooing sounds that are repeated at regular intervals.
The cooing call of the Caribbean Dove is soothing and melodious, often described as a series of low, hollow "cooo... cooo... cooo" notes. These calls serve various purposes such as communication between mates, territorial displays, and also during courtship rituals.
Caribbean Doves are usually heard singing at dawn and dusk, especially during the breeding season when they are most active. Their calls contribute to the ambient sounds of the Caribbean forests where they reside, adding to the overall natural soundscape of the region.
