Where does the Red-eyed Dove live?
Streptopelia semitorquata
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Open the appThe Red-eyed Dove lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Forests, woodlands, savannas, riparian thickets, cultivated lands, suburban gardens, and urban parks.
Geographic range
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to South Africa.
Preferred environments
Prefers areas with scattered trees, dense bush, or woodland edges, often close to water sources. It adapts well to human-modified landscapes, including agricultural fields and urban areas with suitable vegetation.
Elevation range
Sea level up to approximately 2,000 meters (6,500 feet), occasionally higher.
Where to look
Woodlands and Forests
Look in areas with dense tree cover, especially along forest edges and clearings.
Savannas and Bushlands
Often found in savannas with scattered trees and shrubs, particularly near water sources.
Agricultural Areas
Common in farmlands, especially where grains are cultivated, as they feed on fallen seeds.
Urban and Suburban Gardens
They adapt well to human environments and can be found in parks, gardens, and residential areas with mature trees.
Field tips
- Listen for their call. Their distinctive deep cooing call is often the first indication of their presence, especially in dense foliage.
- Check the ground. They are primarily ground feeders, so scan open patches of ground under trees or near cultivated fields.
- Look near water. Like many doves, they need to drink regularly, so check near rivers, ponds, and bird baths.
- Observe at dawn and dusk. They are most active and vocal during the early morning and late afternoon.
Migration
Mostly resident throughout its range, though some local movements may occur in response to food availability or water scarcity, particularly in arid regions. Not considered a migratory species.
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