The Namaqua dove is a very small species of pigeon. It is the only species in the genus Oena. It is found over much of Sub-Saharan Africa as well as Arabia and Madagascar.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
This species occupies dry savannas, acacia thornscrub, semi-desert edges, and open farmland, usually where water is available nearby. It also frequents village edges, tracks, and lightly grazed areas with scattered shrubs. Dense forest and continuous wetlands are generally avoided. On Madagascar and across much of mainland Africa, it is a common resident wherever suitable open habitat exists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Namaqua dove is the sole member of the genus Oena and is notable for the male’s very long, graduated tail and striking black face and throat bib. It favors dry, open habitats but typically stays within reach of water. Pairs are often seen walking on the ground with a delicate, bobbing gait. Despite its small body, it flies swiftly and directly between feeding and watering sites.
A male Namaqua dove foraging at Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary in India
Temperament
generally shy but tolerant near settlements
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups, especially at water. Strong pair bonds with simple platform nests placed low in shrubs or small trees. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft series of mellow coos, often delivered by the male during display. Calls are gentle and repetitive, carrying modestly over open ground.
Plumage
Male with smooth grey head and upperparts, bold black face and throat bib, pale underparts, and very long, graduated tail; female duller brownish-grey with fine scalloping and much shorter tail. Both sexes show clean, smooth plumage with subtle wing patterning.
Diet
Primarily small seeds from grasses and weeds, picked from the ground. It also takes fallen seeds beneath shrubs and along track edges. Occasionally ingests small invertebrates such as termites, and grit to aid digestion.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on open, sparsely vegetated ground, field margins, and village edges. Often forages near water sources and along paths or bare patches where seeds are easy to glean.
