Ruddy Ground-dove
Columbina talpacoti
Tortolita Rojiza
Song
Ruddy Ground-dove
The Ruddy Ground-dove (Columbina talpacoti). Read in Spanish
Appearance: The Ruddy Ground-dove is a relatively small bird with a characteristic rufous or reddish-brown plumage on its upperparts, tail, and wings. It has a pale blue bill and pinkish legs. The underparts of this species are a light gray, often becoming white on the belly.
Habitat: Ruddy Ground-doves are commonly found in a variety of open habitats, including savannas, arid scrublands, agricultural areas, and forest edges. They are typically ground-dwelling birds but can also be seen perched on fences or low branches.
Behavior: These doves are generally inconspicuous but are often heard calling with a distinctive cooing sound. They forage on the ground for seeds, grains, and small insects. Ruddy Ground-doves may form loose feeding flocks, especially around sources of food.
Breeding: Breeding typically occurs from late winter to early summer. They construct simple nests, often on the ground or in low bushes, with both parents contributing to nest building and incubation. The female usually lays two white eggs, and both parents care for the young birds.
Conservation Status: The Ruddy Ground-dove is generally considered widespread and common throughout its range, including Colombia. As such, it is not considered globally threatened, and the species is listed as being of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Distribution
The Ruddy Ground-dove (Columbina talpacoti), is distributed across various regions of the country. This bird species can be typically spotted in different regions, including the Andean regions, the Caribbean coast, the Pacific coast, the Amazon rainforest, and other areas with suitable habitats.
Within the Andean region, the Ruddy Ground-dove can be found in locations such as the Eastern Andes, Central Andes, and Western Andes. Along the Caribbean coast, they inhabit areas like the Guajira Peninsula, the Cesar Valley, and the Magdalena River valley. On the Pacific coast, they are found in regions like Chocó and Narino.
The Ruddy Ground-dove can also be present in different parts of the Amazon rainforest, including regions of the Amazon Basin.These doves are adaptable birds and can thrive in a variety of habitats, ranging from urban areas to rural landscapes, making them relatively widespread throughout the country.
Taxonomy
The Ruddy Ground-dove (Columbina talpacoti)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves
- Order: Columbiformes
- Family: Columbidae
- Genus: Columbina
- Species: Columbina talpacoti
Vocalization
The vocalization of the Ruddy Ground-dove (Columbina talpacoti) typically consists of a series of soft, repetitive, quiet, and melodious cooing sounds. This bird's call is a gentle and soothing sound that can be described as a series of "coo-coo-coo" or "coo-coo-coooo" notes.
The male Ruddy Ground-dove often produces these calls to attract a mate or establish its territory, particularly during the breeding season. These vocalizations are relatively low in volume compared to some other bird species, creating a peaceful ambiance in their surrounding environment.
Overall, the vocalizations of the Ruddy Ground-dove are gentle, melodious, and rhythmic, adding a serene touch to the natural soundscape where they are present.
