The amethyst brown dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae.
Region
Philippine Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland to montane evergreen forests on several Philippine islands, including Luzon and the Mindanao faunal region. Prefers primary forest and well-regenerated secondary growth with a closed canopy and dense understorey. Often keeps to forest interior, foraging quietly along ridges, gullies, and along forest edges near fruiting trees. It is patchy where forest has been fragmented and is most reliable in protected or remote tracts.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for the amethyst-like purple sheen on its neck and breast, this shy forest dove is often heard before it is seen. It is a good indicator of intact, mature forest, keeping to dense interior habitats. Habitat loss and hunting pressure can affect local numbers.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct dashes through forest
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally small loose groups at fruiting trees. Builds a flimsy twig platform nest in low to mid-level vegetation. Courtship includes soft coos and bowing displays, with both parents involved in incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, mournful coos delivered at measured intervals, often from concealed perches. Also gives low, booming hoots at dawn and dusk that carry through dense forest.
Plumage
Overall rich brown with a silky texture and a distinctive iridescent purple (amethyst) sheen on the sides of the neck and upper breast; slightly warmer, rufous-brown underparts. Face subtly grayer with a faint pale throat/cheek line. Tail dark brown with slightly paler tips; wings plain brown without bold bars.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small fruits and berries, including figs and other canopy and mid-story fruits. Also takes fallen fruit on the forest floor and occasionally small seeds. Opportunistic at fruiting trees and may follow seasonal availability of key fruiting species.
Preferred Environment
Forages within dense forest interiors, from the understorey to mid-canopy, and along shaded trails or stream edges. Frequently visits fruiting trees and quietly picks fruit while remaining partially concealed by foliage.
