Namaqua Dove
Oena capensis
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<birdfyi-bird slug="oena-capensis"></birdfyi-bird>About
Very small, long-tailed dove, 22–26 cm; male has a black face and bill contrasting with white underparts and grey-brown wings. Found across Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Madagascar in open arid and semi-arid habitats, including desert scrub, dry savanna, and farmland. Granivore of tiny seeds. Least Concern.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 20.5 cm | 8.1 in |
| Weight | 39.333333333333336 g | 1.39 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Diamond Dove: pale gray; white-spotted wings; red orbital ring; pale below; tiny; common Australian dove; spotted wings
Habitat & Range
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: PL. Incubation: 13-16 days. Fledging: 16 days.
Clutch Size
2
Sound
Song
Soft, gentle cooing with Namaqua charm; delicate pure notes typical of African dry open savanna and scrub.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes (Pigeons & Doves) |
| Family | Columbidae (Pigeons & Doves) |
| Genus | Oena |
| Species | Oena capensis |
Distribution
Namaqua Dove has been recorded in 6 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Namaqua Dove endangered?
How does the Namaqua Dove nest?
What does the Namaqua Dove sound like?
How big is the Namaqua Dove?
What order and family does the Namaqua Dove belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Columbidae family