Patagioenas corensis
The Bare-eyed Pigeon, *Patagioenas corensis*, is a distinctive member of the Columbidae family, easily recognized by its prominent bare, bright red orbital skin and lores. Measuring 33-38 cm (13-15 inches) in length, this robust pigeon has a generally greyish-brown body, often appearing darker on the back and wings, with noticeable blackish primaries and striking white undertail coverts. There is no significant sexual dimorphism, with both sexes displaying similar plumage and the characterist...
Found in arid and semi-arid coastal scrub, dry forests, and mangroves, often near human settlements. Typically inhabits low elevations, from sea level up to approximately 500-800 meters.
Primarily frugivorous and granivorous, feeding on a diverse range of wild fruits, berries, and seeds, occasionally supplementing with flowers or small invertebrates.
A primarily diurnal species, the Bare-eyed Pigeon is often observed foraging on the ground or perched conspicuously in trees and shrubs during the day, typically roosting in dense thorny vegetation at night. Foraging involves gleaning seeds and fruits from the ground, though it will also feed dir...
The Bare-eyed Pigeon is a resident species primarily distributed along the Caribbean coast of northern South America and adjacent islands. Its main range encompasses northeastern Colombia, particularly the arid La Guajira peninsula, and northern Venezuela, extending to the Venezuelan offshore isl...
Least Concern
- The Bare-eyed Pigeon’s scientific name, *corensis*, directly references Coro, a city in Venezuela where it is particularly common. - Its vivid bare red facial skin is not only a key identification mark but also gives the species its common name. - Unlike many pigeons, it is remarkably well-adap...