From Opus

Alternative names: Forest Dove (C. l. simplex), Cinnamon Dove

Columba larvata

Photo by Jan Van den Broeck

[edit] Identification

The Lemon Dove is a forest-dwelling species found in south and east Africa. In size (25-30 cm) it is similar to the Ring-necked Dove and African Mourning Dove.

It is found in the deep shade of forest undergrowth, so, while not uncommon, is easily overlooked. Dark brown plumage, black bill, glossed green on sides of neck and cinnamon brown below. The feet, iris and orbital skin are red.

[edit] Distribution

Eastern and southern Africa. In southern Africa it is confined to the eastern and southern coastal areas.

[edit] Taxonomy

Sometimes placed in the genus Aplopelia.
Some authorities split the subspecies C. l. simplex as Forest Dove Columba simplex, endemic to Sao Tome.

[edit] Habitat

Evergreen forests.

[edit] Behaviour

It forages, solitarily or in pairs, in leaf litter on the forest floor. Its restless scratching and scrabbling in forest litter may alert the astute observer to its presence. It has been recorded as feeding on seeds, berries, insects, molluscs, bulbs and tubers.

[edit] Breeding

A flat platform nest is built out of twigs and rootlets or pine needles. The female usually lays 2 creamy white eggs.

[edit] References

• Maclean (1993) Roberts' Birds of Southern Africa 6th edition. Trustees of the John Voelcker Bird Book Fund: Cape Town.

[edit] External Links