About Chalcophaps indica (Linnaeus, 1758)
The common emerald dove, Chalcophaps indica, is a stocky, medium-sized pigeon that typically measures 23–27 cm (9.1–10.6 in) in length. Its back and wings are bright emerald green, while its flight feathers and tail are blackish. In flight, broad black and white bars are visible on its lower back. Its head and underparts are dark vinous pink, fading to greyish on the lower belly. The eyes are dark brown, the bill is bright red, and the legs and feet are rufous. Males have a white patch on the edge of the shoulders and a grey crown, features that females lack. Females usually have a browner overall complexion, with a grey mark on the shoulder. Immature birds look similar to females but have brown scallops on their body and wing plumage. This is a common species that lives in tropical forests, similar dense wet woodlands, farms, and mangroves. It builds a thin stick nest in a tree up to five meters above ground, and lays two cream-coloured eggs. Emerald doves usually occur alone, in pairs, or in small groups. They are quite terrestrial, often searching for fallen fruit on the ground, and spend little time in trees except when roosting. They feed on seeds and fruits from a wide variety of plants, and are generally tame and approachable. They usually forage in small groups or pairs. In areas with abundant resources, small groups will maintain a territory. Their flight is fast and direct, with regular wing beats and an occasional sharp flick of the wings, a characteristic shared by most pigeons. They often fly low between patches of dense forest, and when disturbed, they frequently walk away instead of flying. They are especially skilled at navigating through forests when flying. When in flight, they expose a buff underwing and chestnut-coloured flight feathers. Their call is a low, soft moaning cooing made up of about six to seven coos, starting quietly and increasing in volume. They also produce a nasal "hoo-hoo-hoon" call. Males perform a bobbing dance during courtship.
