Emerald Dove

Description:

The Emerald Dove is a plump little bird of the rainforest floor with a warm brown head and body, brilliant green wings and two white stripes across its black back. The beak and legs are red and the male Emerald Dove has a white patch on his shoulder. Sometimes it shows off this white patch by lifting its wings when it chases other males.

Notes:

Breeds September to December. Nest a scanty platform of interlaced twigs built in bush, vines, fern or tree-ferns, 1-5m above ground. Two pale eggs. Incubation 14-16 days. Both sexes incubate the eggs, the female by night and the male by day. Feed on the ground, singly or in pairs, foraging for seeds or fruits. Often seen walking on forest tracks, in open clearings and in gardens and parks. Flight is strong and swift and low to the ground with wings beating continuously.