Scaled Pigeon

The scaled pigeon, Patagioenas speciosa, presents itself as a large tropical dove of the New World, boasting a length of 36 cm (14 in) and an average weight of around 290 g (10 oz). The adult male is adorned with a predominantly purple-brown plumage, which gives way to a paler, scaly appearance on the neck and underparts. The lower underparts are edged with a delicate purple, contrasting with the whitish base. A striking red eyering, legs, and bill, the latter tipped with white, complete the male's vivid attire. The female, on the other hand, is cloaked in a more subdued dark brown and is marginally smaller than her male counterpart.

Identification Tips

To identify the scaled pigeon, look for the characteristic scaly pattern on the neck and underparts in males, and the duller brown coloration in females. The red eyering and bill with a white tip are also distinctive features. The size and the fast, direct flight pattern are additional clues to its identification.

Habitat

This species is fairly common in semi-open forests, where it can be found residing and breeding.

Distribution

The scaled pigeon's range extends from southern Mexico through to western Ecuador, southern Brazil, northern Argentina, and Trinidad.

Behaviour

In flight, the scaled pigeon exhibits a high, swift, and direct trajectory, punctuated by regular beats and the occasional sharp flick of the wings, typical of pigeons. It is a solitary bird, not known to form flocks, and exhibits a wariness likely due to being frequently hunted.

Song & Calls

The scaled pigeon communicates with a series of deep cooing cro ku-ks, a call that is notably distinct from that of its relatives, such as the white-crowned pigeon.

Breeding

The species constructs a simple stick platform nest within a tree, where it lays two white eggs. It has also been recorded nesting on the ground-level fern Pteridium aquilinum and in the canopy of the tree fern Cyathea cyatheoides.

Similar Species

While there are no specific similar species mentioned, the scaled pigeon can be differentiated from other pigeons by its unique call and the scaly appearance of its plumage.

Diet and Feeding

Scaled pigeons primarily feast on forest fruits and seeds. They have also been observed consuming fresh green leaves and occasionally crops.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the scaled pigeon as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher risk category.