Olive-backed Quail-Dove

The Olive-backed Quail-Dove, a member of the Columbidae family, is a bird cloaked in an array of subtle yet enchanting colors. The adult boasts a white forehead that seamlessly transitions into a gray crown, followed by a purple hindcrown, nape, and neck. A striking white stripe graces the area beneath the eye, underscored by a thinner black line. Its upperparts are adorned with dark olive brown or purplish brown feathers, while the throat and belly present a pristine white or a gentle buffy white, complemented by reddish buff flanks. Both sexes exhibit a greenish or purplish iridescence across the neck, breast, and upperparts, though females may occasionally display a buff forehead and crown. Juveniles share a similar appearance but are distinguished by rusty fringes on their feathers and an absence of iridescence.

Identification Tips

When observing the Olive-backed Quail-Dove, look for the distinctive white and black stripes under the eye, the iridescent green or purple sheen on the body, and the reddish buff on the flanks. The bird's size ranges from 21 to 24.5 cm in length, with an average weight of around 155 grams.

Habitat

This species thrives in the dense wet forests, favoring particularly the shadowy wet ravines. It can be found from sea level up to elevations of 900 meters.

Distribution

The Olive-backed Quail-Dove graces the Caribbean slope of southern Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama, as well as the Pacific slope of eastern Panama, extending through western Colombia to northern Ecuador's Esmeraldas Province.

Behaviour

This bird is a permanent resident within its range, displaying a preference for walking or running to escape threats. However, it may take flight for short distances if significantly disturbed.

Song & Calls

The call of the Olive-backed Quail-Dove is a distinctive low-pitched 'whOuw', reminiscent of a frog's croak, adding an acoustic allure to its forest habitat.

Breeding

Breeding season for this species spans from January to July in Costa Rica, with similar periods observed elsewhere in its range. The Olive-backed Quail-Dove constructs a bulky nest of twigs and rootlets, typically situated 1 to 2 meters above the ground. A typical clutch consists of two eggs.

Diet and Feeding

Foraging alone or in pairs, the Olive-backed Quail-Dove searches the forest understory and ground for seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates, sustaining its diet.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Olive-backed Quail-Dove as Least Concern. While it is common in parts of its range, the specter of deforestation looms as a potential threat to its continued prosperity.