Columba guinea.
One of the largest pigeons of West Africa, this species is readily distinguished from other members of the family by size and conspicuous colouring.
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Speckled Pigeon. Columba guinea. One of the largest pigeons of West Africa, this species is readily distinguished from other members of the family by size and conspicuous colouring. |
| Recognition: Medium large. The plumage is grey on the head, back and underparts, and mainly a rich purple-brown on the upper back and wings. The wings have conspicuous whitish markings, giving rise to the English name. The grey of the lower back appears almost white when the bird is in flight. |
| Distribution: Throughout the savannah of West Africa and through to East Africa. |
| Habits: Often feeds in flocks on the ground in early morning and late afternoon. When not feeding they often perch on house roofs and draw attention by their calling. In the hottest hours shelter in trees, especially the Borassus palm. Nesting occurs mainly in the first quarter of the year. |
| Call: A deep and repeated "Kroo-roo-roo-roo". |
