Chalcophaps indica
The Common Emerald Dove, *Chalcophaps indica*, is a stunning medium-sized ground-dwelling dove, typically measuring 25-28 cm (10-11 inches) in length and weighing between 100-180 grams. Its most striking feature is the brilliant iridescent emerald green plumage covering its back and wings, often shimmering with coppery-bronze highlights depending on the light angle. Key field marks include a delicate white forehead and supercilium that fades into a grey crown and nape, rufous primary flight f...
This species thrives in dense tropical and subtropical rainforests, moist deciduous forests, and secondary growth, often frequenting areas near streams or water bodies, from sea level up to elevations of approximately 2000 meters.
Their diet primarily consists of fallen seeds from grasses and small shrubs, various types of berries and fruits, and occasionally small invertebrates. They forage almost exclusively on the ground by meticulously picking through leaf litter.
Common Emerald Doves are primarily diurnal and notoriously secretive, spending the majority of their time foraging on the forest floor, where their brilliant plumage paradoxically provides excellent camouflage amidst the dappled light and leaf litter. They walk deliberately, rather than hop, meti...
The Common Emerald Dove boasts an exceptionally wide native range spanning much of the Oriental and Australasian biogeographic realms, establishing it as a resident species across this vast expanse. Its distribution extends from the Indian subcontinent eastward through Southeast Asia, encompassin...
Least Concern
- The Common Emerald Dove is one of the few dove species that prefers to walk with a deliberate stride rather than hop, especially when foraging. - Despite its striking iridescent green back, this bird is surprisingly difficult to spot on the shaded forest floor due to its cryptic behavior and ab...