Geotrygon mystacea
The Bridled Quail-Dove (Geotrygon mystacea) is an exquisite and elusive ground-dwelling bird, a true gem of the Lesser Antilles. Averaging 28-31 cm (11-12.2 inches) in length with a robust, stocky build, its most striking feature is its distinctive facial pattern: a prominent white supercilium contrasting with a blackish malar or 'bridle' stripe, hence its common name. The upperparts are a rich olive-brown to chestnut, often showing iridescent purple and green sheens on the hindneck and mantl...
Found primarily in dense, humid broadleaf evergreen forests, often in mountainous or hilly terrain from sea level up to 1800 meters. Also inhabits shaded coffee plantations and mature secondary growth.
Feeds primarily on fallen fruits, berries, and seeds, supplemented by small invertebrates such as snails and insects found in the leaf litter. Forages by scratching and probing on the forest floor.
This quail-dove is notoriously shy and secretive, spending most of its time foraging quietly on the forest floor, where its cryptic plumage provides excellent camouflage. It walks deliberately, often scratching through leaf litter with its feet or bill in search of food. Diurnal, it roosts in den...
The Bridled Quail-Dove is endemic to the Lesser Antilles, a chain of islands in the eastern Caribbean Sea. Its breeding and resident range extends from Saba south through the main islands to St. Lucia. Key populations are found on islands such as St. Eustatius, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, Guade...
Least Concern
- The Bridled Quail-Dove's distinctive facial 'bridle' pattern is a key field mark, making it unique among its relatives. - It is so secretive that many naturalists identify it more often by its unusual 'hiccup' call than by sight. - Despite its name, it is a true dove (family Columbidae) and not...