The blue-headed wood dove, also known as the blue-headed dove, is a medium-sized, rufous brown wood-dove with bluish-grey head, iridescent green patches on wings, reddish bill, dark brown iris, and dark red feet. Both sexes are similar. The young is duller in colour than adult.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and submontane evergreen forests, including primary rainforest and well-wooded secondary growth. It favors dense understory, forest edges, clearings, and shaded plantations near intact woodland. The species is most often encountered on or near the ground, especially along quiet trails and leaf-littered patches. It tolerates some habitat disturbance provided cover remains, but is most numerous in mature, humid forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A shy forest dove, the blue-headed wood dove keeps close to dense cover and is most often seen foraging quietly on the forest floor. When flushed, it flies low with rapid wingbeats, sometimes producing a whirr as it darts between trees. Its iridescent green wing patch can flash brightly in dappled light. Pairs build a flimsy stick platform and typically lay one to two eggs.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, sometimes small family groups. It nests low in dense vegetation, constructing a flimsy stick platform. Breeding pairs are monogamous and both parents share incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, mellow coos delivered at measured intervals, often from a concealed perch. The notes are low and mournful, carrying through forest understory in the early morning and late afternoon.
