Red-eyed dove

Scientific name: Streptopelia semitorquata

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

Small dove with distinctive red eye-ring and orbital skin. Plumage is warm buff-brown above with a dark maroon patch on the nape; underparts paler. Male and female similar, though males may show slightly richer coloration.

Size and weight

Adults typically weigh 90–130 g, with body length 20–23 cm. No significant sexual dimorphism in size.

Habitat

Open and semi-open woodlands, thornbush savanna, and cultivated areas with scattered trees. Occurs from sea level to approximately 2,000 m elevation.

Distribution

Endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to northern Angola and Zambia. Prefers open savanna and cultivated margins rather than dense forest.

Diet

Primarily grass seeds and small seeds from herbs and weeds, gleaned from ground; also takes fallen grain in agricultural areas.

Behaviour

Diurnal and crepuscular, most active in early morning and late afternoon. Often solitary or in pairs; may gather in small flocks at favourable feeding sites. Walks deliberately on ground searching for seed.

Hunting tips

Look for birds on bare ground or short-grass areas at dawn and dusk. Drop droppings and worn feeding patches indicate regular use. Approach slowly along cover edges; birds flush readily but perch openly on low branches or fence posts. Early morning drives through feeding habitat can push birds to predictable roost areas.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 7 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.