The long-tailed ground dove is a species of bird in the dove and pigeon family, Columbidae. It is found in Bolivia and Brazil.
Region
Central South America (Brazilian Cerrado and adjacent Bolivia)
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in dry savannas, open scrub, and lightly wooded grasslands of the Cerrado and adjacent dry forests. Often found along edges of gallery woodlands, field margins, and near waterholes during dry periods. Uses areas with scattered shrubs or termite mounds that provide quick cover. Tolerates some low-intensity agriculture but avoids dense forest and very open treeless plains.
Altitude Range
100–1400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The long-tailed ground dove is the only species in the genus Uropelia and is notable for its very long, graduated tail. It spends much of its time on the ground in open savannas and scrub, flushing with a swift, low flight when disturbed. Its soft, repetitive cooing is often heard more than the bird is seen. Habitat loss in the Cerrado is a concern, though the species is currently not considered globally threatened.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Forages quietly on the ground, often near cover, and flushes only when approached closely. Likely monogamous, building a flimsy platform nest low in shrubs or small trees and laying one to two eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive cooing phrase delivered from the ground or a low perch. Also gives quiet contact notes while foraging and a sharp flutter or clap on sudden takeoff.
Plumage
Warm sandy-brown upperparts with fine scaling and rows of darker spots on the wings; paler buff underparts. Very long, graduated tail with pale edges and tips. Face slightly grayer than the crown with a subtle pale throat.
Diet
Primarily small seeds of grasses and herbs gleaned from the ground. Supplements diet with small invertebrates such as ants, termites, and beetles, especially during breeding or after rains. May take small berries when available. Often visits edges of paths, fallow fields, and livestock areas where seeds are abundant.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on bare ground patches, along tracks, and in lightly vegetated savanna and scrub. Stays close to low cover for quick concealment and uses shaded spots during the heat of the day.
