Physical Characteristics:
- Size: It is a medium-sized dove, measuring around 28 to 30 cm (11–12 inches) in length.
- Color: The Common Emerald Dove is recognized by its striking emerald green plumage on its back and wings, with a slightly reddish-brown or maroon chest and underparts. Its eyes are orange, which contrasts beautifully with its feathers.
- Flight: It has a rather slow and graceful flight, often seen gliding quietly through forested areas.
Habitat and Distribution:
- Habitat: The Common Emerald Dove is typically found in forests and wooded areas, including both tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers dense, moist forests, often near streams or other water sources.
- Range: This bird is widespread across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Philippines. In India, it is particularly found in the Western Ghats, parts of Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
Behavior:
- Diet: It feeds primarily on seeds, fruits, and sometimes small invertebrates. It forages on the ground, often under dense vegetation, pecking at the soil for food.
- Social Behavior: Unlike some other species of doves, the Common Emerald Dove is often solitary or found in pairs rather than large flocks.
- Call: Its call is a soft and mournful sound, often described as a "who-who-who" noise, which can be heard in its forested habitat.
Reproduction:
- Nesting: The Common Emerald Dove builds a nest in dense shrubs or low trees. The nest is typically made from twigs and leaves.
- Eggs: The female usually lays two eggs, which both parents take turns incubating.
- Chicks: Once hatched, the chicks are fed "pigeon milk," a secretion produced by the parents, which is rich in nutrients.
Conservation Status:
- The Common Emerald Dove is not currently considered threatened and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, primarily due to its wide distribution and stable population. However, like many forest-dwelling species, it is still affected by habitat loss due to deforestation.
Significance to Tamil Nadu:
- The Maragadhappuraa (Common Emerald Dove) was officially declared the state bird of Tamil Nadu, symbolizing the rich biodiversity of the state. Its vivid green plumage is also symbolic of the natural beauty and the need for conservation in the region.
This bird adds to the natural heritage of Tamil Nadu, and its unique characteristics make it a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
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