Cinnamon Ground Dove

The Cinnamon ground dove, also known as the golden-heart dove, red-throated ground dove, or golden-heart pigeon, is a charming species of ground-dwelling dove. This bird, with a length of approximately 22–24 cm and a weight range of 121-137g, is adorned with a distinctive red 'blushing' mark on its head. Its plumage is a harmonious blend of light brown and grey, with a striking yellow marking on its belly encircled by white. Some individuals boast blue markings on their heads and bodies, adding to their allure.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Cinnamon ground dove, look for its reddish back and wings, which are accentuated by pale grey-blue diagonal motifs. These unique patterns set it apart from other birds within its genus, Gallicolumba.

Habitat

This medium-sized ground dove is predominantly found in the lowland forests and foothills, where it forages on the forest floor.

Distribution

The Cinnamon ground dove is native to the lush landscapes of New Guinea.

Behaviour

The Cinnamon ground dove exhibits a preference for ground foraging, often seen rummaging through leaf litter in search of sustenance.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of this species are subtle yet distinctive. It produces a faint trill and a soft purring sound that resonates for a few seconds, adding a serene soundtrack to its forest habitat.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Cinnamon ground dove is quite varied, consisting mainly of insects. However, it also partakes in fallen fruits, seeds, and even ground worms. Its foraging technique involves sifting through the leaf litter that carpets the forest floor, relying heavily on the bounty found at ground level.

Subspecies

The Cinnamon ground dove has several subspecies, each with its own geographical range and subtle variations in plumage:

• Gallicolumba rufigula rufigula
• Gallicolumba rufigula alaris
• Gallicolumba rufigula helviventris
• Gallicolumba rufigula orientalis
• Gallicolumba rufigula septentrionalis

Conservation status

The Cinnamon ground dove is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that, for now, this species is not at immediate risk of decline.