Patagioenas cayennensis
The Pale-vented Pigeon (*Patagioenas cayennensis*) is a widespread and striking Neotropical pigeon, typically measuring 28-36 cm (11-14 inches) in length and weighing 180-260 grams (6.3-9.2 oz). Its most distinctive feature is the contrasting pale grey to whitish belly and undertail coverts, which stands out against its rich purplish-chestnut to reddish-brown head, neck, and upperparts. The neck often exhibits an iridescent green and purple sheen, particularly in good light, and its legs are ...
This adaptable pigeon thrives in open woodlands, forest edges, clearings, secondary growth, and cultivated areas with scattered trees, from sea level up to approximately 2000 meters in elevation.
The Pale-vented Pigeon is primarily frugivorous and granivorous, feeding on a wide variety of berries, drupes, seeds, and grains, mostly foraging on the ground for fallen items.
Pale-vented Pigeons are diurnal, often observed singly, in pairs, or small groups, though they can form larger communal roosts of hundreds outside the breeding season. They forage primarily on the ground for fallen fruits and seeds, walking deliberately and pecking, but also glean fruit directly ...
The Pale-vented Pigeon is a widespread resident throughout much of the Neotropics. Its extensive breeding and year-round range spans from southeastern Mexico, including the Yucatán Peninsula, south through all of Central America (Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama), and ac...
Least Concern
- The scientific name *cayennensis* refers to Cayenne, French Guiana, where this species was first described. - Despite its common name suggesting a plain appearance, the iridescent neck feathers can flash brilliant greens and purples in direct sunlight. - It is one of the most geographically wid...