The Luzon bleeding-heart, bleeding-heart dove, bleeding-heart pigeon or punay is a species of ground dove in the genus Gallicolumba, known as "bleeding-hearts" due to their distinctive red patch on its chest. It was also known as paloma de punalada 'stabbed pigeon' but is nowadays more commonly referred to as just punalada. The Luzon bleeding-heart is the species in which the "blood" feature is most pronounced, while the Mindanao bleeding-heart does have a larger red patch, the Luzon bleeding-heart has a reddish hue extending down the belly, furthering the illusion of a blood stain. It is threatened by habitat loss and hunting for the pet trade and for meat.
Region
Northern Philippines (Luzon and adjacent islands)
Typical Environment
Found mainly on the forest floor of lowland and foothill evergreen forests, including primary and well-developed secondary growth. It favors dense understory, bamboo thickets, and areas with deep leaf litter where it can forage quietly. Birds may also use forest edges and regenerating scrub when cover is sufficient. It is highly terrestrial and typically remains in shaded, secluded areas. Where undisturbed, it can occur near streams and in limestone forests with intact understory.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This ground-dwelling dove is famed for the vivid red patch on its white breast that resembles a bleeding wound. It is shy and elusive, preferring to run through dense undergrowth and only fly when flushed. Habitat loss and hunting pressure have reduced its numbers in many parts of its range. It plays a role in forest regeneration by dispersing seeds of understory plants.
Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Park
Luzon bleeding-Heart at Taronga Zoo, Sydney. Taken November 2013
Temperament
shy and elusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; low, fast dashes when flushed
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs, foraging quietly on the ground under dense cover. Nests low in vegetation or small shrubs, usually a simple platform of twigs. Clutch size is small (often one to two eggs), with both parents sharing incubation and chick-rearing duties. Territorial behavior is most evident during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, low cooing notes, often a single mournful hoot repeated at intervals from concealed perches. Calls are subdued and easily missed, aiding its secretive lifestyle.
