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Inca Dove

Columbina inca ORDER: COLUMBIFORMES FAMILY: COLUMBIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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A small tropical dove of arid areas, the Inca Dove has become a common resident of urban areas of the Southwest. It has expanded its breeding range northward and southward, but has remained attracted to towns and cities.

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At a GlanceHelp

Measurements
Both Sexes
Length
7.1–9.1 in
18–23 cm
Weight
1.1–2 oz
30–58 g
Other Names
  • Coquita Común, Tortolita San Juan (Spanish)

Cool Facts

  • The Inca Dove engages in an odd behavior, known as "pyramid roosting." Pairs or groups of Inca Doves may huddle together in the sunshine, with some sitting on the back of the others. The pyramid may be three layers high and include up to 12 birds.

Habitat


Town
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Food


Seeds
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Nesting

Nest Placement

Shrub
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Behavior


Ground Forager
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Conservation

status via IUCN

Least Concern

Population in United States is increasing.

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Credits

  • Mueller, A. J. 1992. Inca Dove (Columbina inca). In The Birds of North America, No. 28 (A. Poole, P. Stettenheim, and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA; The American Ornithologists' Union, Washington, D.C.
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Range Map Help

Inca Dove Range Map
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