The bare-faced ground dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the western and central Andes of Peru, Bolivia, northern Chile, and northwestern Argentina. It favors arid to semi-arid highland habitats including puna grasslands, rocky slopes, quebradas, and open scrub. The species readily uses human-modified areas such as villages, stone walls, and croplands. Nesting often takes place on ledges, cliffs, or in man-made structures.
Altitude Range
1500–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small Andean dove often lives close to people, foraging in villages and agricultural terraces as well as natural puna and scrub. Its striking bare, yellow-orange facial skin gives the species its name. It is well adapted to high-elevation life and frequently nests in walls, cliffs, and buildings. Despite its localized range in the Andes, it is generally common where suitable habitat exists.
Temperament
wary but tolerant near settlements
Flight Pattern
low, direct flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups, often feeding on the ground. Nests on ledges, in wall crevices, or among rocks, using simple twig platforms. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding period and may defend small territories around nest sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive series of coos, often delivered from a perch or low wall. Calls include gentle cooing notes used in contact and courtship. Vocalizations carry modestly in open highland terrain.
Plumage
Pale grayish-brown to sandy upperparts with subtle scaling, darker flight feathers, and warmer rufous tones in the wing coverts. Underparts are paler gray to buff. The tail is relatively long with whitish edges.
Diet
Primarily seeds of grasses and weeds, along with grains gleaned around fields and villages. It picks small seeds from bare ground and between rocks. Occasional ingestion of small plant matter and grit aids digestion.
Preferred Environment
Forages on open ground in puna grasslands, stony slopes, and along paths, patios, and agricultural plots. Frequently seen near human habitation where spilled grain and seeds are available.
