Birdsong field guide
Barred Dove
Geopelia maugeus
A small, delicate dove of the Lesser Sundas, distinguished by its fine black-and-white barring and striking blue orbital skin. It is a close relative of the Zebra Dove but maintains a distinct geographical range and vocalization pattern.
What it sounds like
A series of soft, rhythmic, high-pitched staccato notes, typically sounding like 'wook-wook-wook-wook'.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- Features a prominent ring of turquoise-blue bare skin around each eye, which is more vivid than in related species.
- Possesses extensive dark barring that covers the neck, breast, and flanks, giving it a scaled appearance.
- Primarily a granivore, it spends the majority of its active hours foraging on the ground for small seeds and grit.
- The species is endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands, spanning from Sumbawa in the west to the Tanimbar Islands in the east.
- Engages in a rhythmic bowing display during courtship where the male fans its tail to reveal white terminal spots.
Habitat
Open woodland, scrubby secondary growth, agricultural fields, and suburban gardens.
Range
Lesser Sunda Islands (Indonesia and East Timor).
Similar & commonly confused birds
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