Nesoenas picturatus
The Malagasy Turtle Dove, scientific name *Nesoenas picturatus*, is a striking medium-sized dove endemic to Madagascar and the surrounding Western Indian Ocean islands. Measuring approximately 23-25 cm (9-10 inches) in length and weighing between 97-150 grams (3.4-5.3 ounces), it is characterized by its soft grey head and neck, contrasting with a rich rufous-chestnut back and wings. Its underparts exhibit a delicate pinkish-vinous hue, fading to white on the belly. Distinctive field marks inc...
This adaptable dove inhabits a broad spectrum of environments, from humid evergreen forests and dry deciduous woodlands to cultivated agricultural lands, secondary growth, and even urban parks and gardens. It is found from sea level up to elevations of over 2000 meters in Madagascar.
Their diet consists primarily of seeds, fallen berries, and various fruits, which they glean from the ground or pluck directly from plants. They may also consume small invertebrates opportunistically.
Malagasy Turtle Doves are primarily diurnal, foraging actively during the day and typically roosting communally or solitarily in trees and dense foliage at night. Their foraging strategy involves both ground gleaning for seeds and fallen fruits, and arboreal feeding on berries and other plant mat...
The Malagasy Turtle Dove is entirely restricted to the Malagasy region, with its primary distribution across the large island of Madagascar. Its range extends to several smaller islands in the Western Indian Ocean, including the Comoros Archipelago (Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan), Mayotte, the G...
Least Concern
- The Malagasy Turtle Dove is one of the most common and widespread birds in Madagascar and its surrounding islands. - It is one of three extant species in the genus *Nesoenas*, alongside the critically endangered Pink Pigeon and the Madagascar Turtle Dove (*N. rodericana*, extinct). - Despite it...