About Geophaps scripta (Temminck, 1821)
This species, scientifically named Geophaps scripta (Temminck, 1821), is the southern squatter pigeon. It measures approximately 30 cm in length, and weighs between 190 g and 250 g. Adult birds are primarily grey-brown, with distinctive black and white facial markings, and a white stripe running up each of their sides. The skin around the eyes is blue-grey. The upper wings are dark brown with patches of iridescent green or violet; the lower breast and belly are blue-grey, and the lower body region is white. The two sexes have similar appearance. Juveniles can be distinguished by duller colouring, less distinctive facial stripes, and paler facial skin. The known distribution of the southern squatter pigeon extends south of Cape York Peninsula, to the Border Rivers region of northern New South Wales, and south-eastern Queensland. The subspecies subpopulation north of the Carnarvon Ranges remains common. In 2000, the total population was estimated at 40,000 breeding birds.
