The West Peruvian dove or Pacific dove is a species of dove in the genus Zenaida.
Region
Western South America (coastal Peru and adjacent areas)
Typical Environment
Primarily along Peru’s arid and semi-arid coastal plain and river valleys, extending through city parks, gardens, and farmland. It favors open scrub, agricultural fields, orchards, and urban green spaces with scattered trees. Nesting occurs in trees, cacti, palms, and on building ledges. It readily uses irrigated landscapes and human-modified habitats, often near reliable water sources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Pacific dove, it is common along Peru’s arid coast and thrives in towns and cities, including Lima. It resembles the Eared Dove but is paler and slightly larger, with conspicuous white edges to the tail. Pairs often breed repeatedly in the mild coastal climate, using trees, palms, or building ledges. Its adaptability to urban parks and agricultural lands has helped it remain widespread.
Temperament
social and tolerant of humans
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs during the breeding season and in small to medium flocks at feeding sites or roosts. Monogamous pairs build simple platform nests and typically lay two white eggs. It readily exploits urban structures for nesting and may breed multiple times a year where conditions allow.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of mellow, mournful coos, often starting with a slightly accented first note. Calls are repeated in steady sequences, and wing-whistles may be heard during takeoff or rapid flight.
Plumage
Pale sandy-brown to gray-brown upperparts with slightly warmer tones on the wings and a paler gray underbody. Tail shows bold white edges and tips contrasting with darker central feathers. Subtle iridescence may appear on the neck in good light, with a small dark ear patch typical of Zenaida doves.
Diet
Primarily eats seeds and grains from grasses, weeds, and crops, often gleaned from the ground. It also takes small fruits and buds and will consume spilled grain around farms and markets. In urban areas it readily visits open ground in parks and plazas to pick up seeds and scraps.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mostly on the ground in open fields, road edges, orchards, and city parks with scattered trees or shrubs. Irrigated lawns and agricultural plots are frequently used, especially where seed availability is high.
