Emerald Dove

Chalocphaps indica

Size - 23-28cm. Small, plump, purplish brown dove with bronzed, emerald-green wings, orange to maroon bill and legs. Male has white shoulder patch.

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.

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