About Streptopelia vinacea (J.F.Gmelin, 1789)
The vinaceous dove (Streptopelia vinacea (J.F.Gmelin, 1789)) is a small, stocky pigeon. It is typically 26 to 30 centimeters (10.2 to 11.8 inches) long and weighs 130 to 180 grams (4.6 to 6.3 ounces). Its back, wings, and tail are pale brown. When it flies, it displays a blackish underwing. Its head and underparts are pale pinkish-grey, and it has a black hind-neck patch edged with white. The legs are red, and there is white in the tail. Adult males and females are similar in appearance, while juvenile birds are duller than adults. Its call is a fast coo-cu-cu-coo. Vinaceous doves live around 3 to 5 years in the wild. This species builds a stick nest in a tree, most often an acacia, and lays two white eggs. Its flight is quick, with the regular wing beats and occasional sharp wing flick that is characteristic of pigeons as a group. The vinaceous dove is a common bird found in central and western African countries including Senegal, Gambia, Burkina Faso, Benin, and Nigeria. It is abundant in scrub and savannah habitats.
