Gray-fronted Dove

The Gray-fronted Dove (Leptotila rufaxilla)  Read in Spanish

Appearance: The Gray-fronted Dove features a subtle color palette of gray, brown, and white. It has a distinct gray patch on its forehead, from which it derives its name. Its underparts are a light pinkish-gray, and it has a contrasting rufous tail. It is a medium-sized dove with a gentle and unassuming appearance.

Habitat: The Gray-fronted Dove can be found in various forested and wooded habitats, including tropical rainforests and montane forests. It tends to favor areas with abundant vegetation and access to water sources. This species thrives in regions with a mixture of trees and shrubs, allowing it to find food and seek shelter.

Behavior: Gray-fronted Doves are known for their shy and secretive nature. They tend to forage quietly on the forest floor for seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates. Their soft cooing calls can be heard echoing through the forests, especially during the early morning and late afternoon hours. These doves are typically monogamous and form bonded pairs.

Breeding: The breeding habits of the Gray-fronted Dove in Colombia are similar to those of the species in other regions. They build simple nests made of twigs, usually situated in the trees or shrubs. The female lays one or two white eggs, and both parents participate in incubating the eggs and caring for the nestlings once they hatch.

Conservation Status: The conservation status of the Gray-fronted Dove in Colombia is currently categorized as "Least Concern" according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).