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Overview
White-fronted ground dove

White-fronted ground dove

Wikipedia

The white-fronted ground dove or Caroline Islands ground dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to Micronesia.

Distribution

Region

Micronesia

Typical Environment

Occurs in the Caroline Islands where it favors dense, moist lowland and hill forests, including secondary growth and forest edges. It also uses thickets, limestone forest, and mangroves, often keeping close to cover. Birds spend much time on the ground, foraging in leaf litter along paths, clearings, and stream margins. Human-modified habitats like plantations may be used if understory cover is retained.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 600 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size20–24 cm
Wing Span32–38 cm
Male Weight0.14 kg
Female Weight0.12 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also called the Caroline Islands ground dove, it is a shy forest-floor pigeon endemic to Micronesia. Formerly placed in the genus Alopecoenas, it is threatened by invasive predators such as rats and cats and by habitat loss. Its secretive habits and low densities make it difficult to survey reliably.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and terrestrial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually encountered singly or in pairs, keeping to dense understory where it walks and forages quietly. Nests are simple twig platforms placed low in shrubs or small trees. Typically lays two eggs, and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing. Displays and calling are most frequent at dawn and dusk.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A soft, low series of mellow coos, often delivered from a concealed perch within the understory. Calls are subdued and can be difficult to locate, aiding its secretive lifestyle.

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