Moreno's ground dove or the bare-eyed ground dove, is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to Argentina.
Region
Southern Central Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Andean foothills and intermontane valleys of northwestern Argentina, especially in arid scrub and open, stony slopes. It favors sparse shrublands, quebradas, and edges of cultivated plots. Birds are most often encountered on the ground near rocky outcrops and dry washes. Water is taken at nearby springs or streams when available.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the bare-eyed ground dove, this species is endemic to arid uplands of northwestern Argentina. It is easily recognized by its conspicuous bare, colored skin around the eye. Typically seen walking on stony ground in small groups or pairs, it flushes with a swift, low flight. Nests are flimsy platforms of twigs, usually with two eggs.
Temperament
wary but often tolerant near quiet areas
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats in low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Commonly forages in pairs or small groups, loosely associating with other ground-doves. Breeding pairs build a flimsy twig platform in low shrubs or cacti. Clutch size is usually two eggs, with both parents sharing incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft series of low, repeated coos delivered from a perch or the ground. Calls include gentle, rolling notes used for contact within pairs and small groups.
Plumage
Sandy-brown to gray-brown upperparts with subtle mottling and a paler, slightly scaled breast. Underparts are buff-gray, with darker flight feathers contrasting in the wing. Tail shows pale edges and tips when spread.
Diet
Primarily consumes small seeds of grasses and forbs gleaned from the ground. It also takes fallen grains near fields and occasionally tiny invertebrates. Grit is ingested to aid digestion.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on open, stony ground, along paths, and at the edges of scrub or low agricultural plots. Often forages near water sources or dry riverbeds where seeds accumulate.
