The Azuero dove or brown-backed dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to Panama.
Region
Central America
Typical Environment
Occurs in Panama’s Azuero Peninsula and nearby offshore islands, especially in patches of tropical dry forest and secondary growth. It keeps close to dense understory, thickets, and forest edges where leaf litter is deep. The species is most often encountered on or near the ground and will flush to low perches when disturbed. Protected island habitats, such as on Coiba, support important subpopulations.
Altitude Range
0–800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Azuero dove, also called the brown-backed dove, is a shy ground-dwelling pigeon restricted to Panama’s Azuero region and nearby islands. It favors seasonally dry forests and thick undergrowth, where it forages quietly on the forest floor. Habitat loss from deforestation has been the primary threat. Protection in reserves like Coiba National Park offers some refuge for remaining populations.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct when flushed
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or found in pairs. Nests are simple twig platforms placed low in dense vegetation or small trees. Breeding behavior is discreet; pairs remain inconspicuous and rely on camouflage and stillness to avoid detection.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, mournful series of low cooing notes, typically delivered from a concealed perch within dense cover. Calls are slow and spaced, often heard at dawn and dusk and carrying modestly through dry forest.
