The white-breasted ground dove, white-bibbed ground dove, or purple ground dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago and the Solomon Islands. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Melanesia
Typical Environment
Occurs across New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago, and the Solomon Islands. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests as well as lower montane forests, favoring dense understory and forest edges. The species frequently uses secondary growth, regenerating clearings, and areas near fruiting trees. It spends most of its time on or near the forest floor, moving unobtrusively through leaf litter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This shy ground-dwelling dove is often detected by its soft, low coos rather than seen, as it keeps to dense forest undergrowth. Males show a striking white throat and breast patch that contrasts with darker purplish upperparts, while females are duller. By consuming and passing seeds from fallen fruits, it contributes to forest regeneration.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low direct flight through understory
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, keeping to dense cover. Nests are placed low, often in shrubs or small trees, with a simple platform typical of doves. Clutches are small, commonly one to two eggs, and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, low-pitched coos that carry short distances through thick vegetation. Phrases are simple, repeated, and often delivered from concealed perches. Calls are most frequent at dawn and late afternoon.
