Red-eyed Dove song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Red-eyed Dove, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The song is a deep, resonant, and often mournful 'coo-coo-COO-coo' or 'doo-doo-DOO-doo', with the third note emphasized and rising in pitch. It is a characteristic sound of the African bush and often repeated.

Calls

Alarm calls are a sharp 'whirr' when flushed. Other calls include soft cooing notes exchanged between pairs.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season, particularly in the mornings and evenings, but can be heard throughout the day year-round.

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