Laughing Dove

The Laughing Dove (Spilopelia senegalensis) is a small, graceful pigeon with a long tail, known for its gentle, unassuming presence across a vast range. Exhibiting a pinkish-brown underside with a lilac-tinged head and neck, this dove carries an air of delicate beauty. The species is recognized by its pinkish head and underparts, transitioning to buff on the lower abdomen. Adults boast a distinctive chequered rufous and grey patch on the neck, composed of split feathers, while the upper parts are brownish with a bluish-grey wing band.

Identification Tips

When observing the Laughing Dove, look for its slim profile, about 25 cm in length, and the graduated tail with white-tipped outer feathers. Both sexes appear similar, making field identification by gender challenging. Juveniles can be identified by the absence of the chequered neck markings. The red legs are another characteristic feature to note.

Habitat

This species thrives in dry scrub and semi-desert regions, often seen in pairs as they forage on the ground. It has adapted well to human habitation, becoming quite tame in areas where people are present.

Distribution

The Laughing Dove has a broad range that includes Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and Western Australia. It is a resident breeder in these areas, with some populations showing sedentary behavior, while others may exhibit local movements.

Behaviour

Typically seen in pairs or small groups, the Laughing Dove is not known to form large flocks. It displays a quick and direct flight pattern, with regular beats and occasional sharp wing flicks. The species is fairly terrestrial and can often be observed foraging on the ground.

Song & Calls

The species is named for its call, a low rolling "croo-doo-doo-doo-doo" with a rising and falling amplitude, reminiscent of a chuckle.

Breeding

The Laughing Dove's breeding behavior includes courtship displays with head bobbing and "displacement-preening." Nesting is a joint effort, with males gathering twigs and females arranging them. They typically lay two eggs, which are incubated for about 13 to 15 days. The young fledge after approximately two weeks.

Similar Species

The Laughing Dove is closely related to the Spotted Dove (Spilopelia chinensis), which can be distinguished by its white and black chequered necklace.

Diet and Feeding

Laughing Doves primarily feed on fallen seeds, particularly those of grasses, as well as other vegetable matter and small ground insects like termites and beetles.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Laughing Dove as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant threats at present.