Bare-eyed Ground-Dove

Metriopelia morenoi

Order: Columbiformes / Family: Columbidae

Wikimedia Commons

brown gray white small year-round grassland mountain common widespread terrestrial

About the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove

The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove, scientifically known as Metriopelia morenoi, is a small, captivating member of the Columbidae family. Found predominantly in the high-altitude regions of the Andes, this dove exhibits unique adaptations that allow it to thrive in such challenging environments. Its presence in these areas underscores its ecological significance as a species finely attuned to the montane ecosystems of South America. Typically residing at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 meters, the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove occupies temperate to arid montane scrublands and open grasslands dotted with rocky outcrops. These regions provide a mosaic of microhabitats that support the bird’s diverse needs for feeding, nesting, and shelter. Seasonally, the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove may shift its range slightly, moving to lower altitudes during the colder months to escape harsh winter conditions. Its role in the ecosystem is multifaceted, involving seed dispersal and serving as a prey species for higher trophic predators. The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove's presence is indicative of the health of its habitat, as it is sensitive to environmental changes. During the breeding season, which typically spans from September to February, these doves are more conspicuous as they engage in courtship and nesting activities. Throughout these months, their calls become more frequent, serving both as a means of attracting mates and establishing territories. This seasonal behavior highlights the bird's adaptability and resilience in the face of environmental pressures. In addition to its ecological roles, the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove is of interest to ornithologists and bird watchers alike, who are drawn to its subtle beauty and the challenge of observing it in its natural habitat. Conservation efforts aim to maintain the integrity of its habitat, ensuring that this species continues to thrive in the wild.

The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove belongs to the family Columbidae, within the order Columbiformes. These birds typically live typically 4-7 years, with some individuals reaching 9 years..

How to Identify a Bare-eyed Ground-Dove

The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove is easily recognizable by its distinctive bare, light-colored eye-rings that contrast sharply with its otherwise muted plumage. Adults typically exhibit a soft brown coloration on the upperparts, while the underparts are a lighter, buffy shade. The wings may show subtle hints of iridescence, particularly in good lighting, adding a touch of elegance to their overall appearance. Juvenile Bare-eyed Ground-Doves often display slightly duller plumage, lacking the slight iridescence seen in adults. Males and females are similar in appearance, though males might be marginally larger or more robust in build. This dove is occasionally confused with the similar-looking Black-winged Ground-Dove, but the latter has darker wing markings and lacks the prominent bare eye-rings. In flight, the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove presents a compact silhouette, characterized by rapid wingbeats and a slight, rolling flight pattern. When perched, its posture is typically upright, with the tail slightly drooped, accentuating its ground-dwelling habits. Observers should note the bird's behavior and habitat preferences to distinguish it more reliably from closely related species.

Having trouble telling birds apart? Upload a photo to our bird identification tool for an instant species match.

Bare-eyed Ground-Dove Habitat and Range

Preferred Habitat

The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove predominantly inhabits high-altitude montane regions of the Andes, thriving in open grasslands and arid scrublands interspersed with rocky outcrops. These habitats offer the necessary ground cover and food resources. The species typically resides at elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 meters, showing a preference for areas with sparse vegetation that provide both feeding opportunities and protection from predators. During winter, the doves may descend to lower altitudes, seeking milder conditions. While primarily a resident of rural and wild areas, the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove can occasionally be found near human settlements where suitable habitat persists. Unlike some other dove species, it rarely ventures into urban environments, preferring the tranquility and resources of its natural habitats.

Geographic Range

The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove is native to the Andean regions of South America, with its range extending from northern Argentina through Bolivia and into southern Peru. This geographic distribution encompasses a variety of montane habitats, reflecting the species' adaptability to different environmental conditions. Within its range, population density varies, with certain areas forming hotspots, particularly where optimal habitat conditions exist. The dove is largely non-migratory, though some seasonal altitudinal movements occur, especially during harsh winter months. Breeding territories overlap with their year-round range, meaning that the doves do not undertake long-distance migrations typical of some other avian species, instead adapting to local conditions.

Want to know which birds visit your area? Browse our backyard birds by location guides for region-specific species lists.

What Does the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove Eat?

The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove primarily feeds on a varied diet of seeds and grains, which it forages from the ground in open areas. It may also consume small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season, when additional protein supports chick development. The dove's foraging technique involves walking along the ground, pecking at seeds and small insects. It typically feeds during the early morning and late afternoon, avoiding the midday heat common in its high-altitude habitats. Seasonal diet shifts occur as different seed types become available, illustrating the bird's adaptability to fluctuating food resources. The size of prey items is generally small, consistent with the dove's modest size and ground-foraging lifestyle.

Bare-eyed Ground-Dove Behavior and Social Structure

The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove exhibits a solitary or loosely social behavior pattern, often seen in pairs or small groups rather than large flocks. Territorial during the breeding season, males engage in vocal displays and posturing to establish dominance and attract mates. Courtship involves a series of bowing and cooing displays, accompanied by gentle wing flicks. Outside of the breeding period, the doves display a more communal attitude, feeding and resting together. Their response to predators includes swift, low flights to nearby cover and sharp alarm calls to warn conspecifics. Daily activities follow a diurnal pattern, with peak foraging times in the cooler morning and late afternoon hours. The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove's behavior reflects its adaptation to both the social and environmental demands of its habitat.

Bare-eyed Ground-Dove Nesting and Reproduction

The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove builds simple, shallow nests, using grasses and twigs, typically placed on the ground or in low shrubs. Nest sites are often chosen for their concealment, providing protection from predators. Clutch size generally consists of two eggs, which are incubated by both parents over a period of approximately 13 to 15 days. After hatching, both parents participate in feeding the chicks through regurgitation. Fledging occurs around 14 to 16 days post-hatching, with young birds remaining dependent on their parents for a short period thereafter. The species may raise one to two broods per year, depending on environmental conditions and food availability. Nesting success is influenced by factors such as predation pressure and habitat quality.

Bare-eyed Ground-Dove Sounds and Vocalizations

The primary vocalization of the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove is a soft, cooing song, characterized by a repetitive, gentle rhythm and a mellow pitch, typically used during courtship and territorial displays. Calls are short and consist of a series of low, melodious notes that carry well in the open landscapes they inhabit. Alarm calls are sharper and more abrupt, serving to alert other doves of potential danger. During the dawn chorus, their calls become more frequent and persistent, adding to the ambient sounds of their habitat. These vocalizations are integral to their social interactions and are a key aspect of their behavioral repertoire.

Interesting Facts About the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove

1The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove can survive at altitudes as high as 4,000 meters, showcasing its remarkable adaptation to thin air.
2Unlike many doves, the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove prefers terrestrial habitats, rarely venturing into trees.
3The species' distinctive bare eye-ring is hypothesized to play a role in mate selection and social signaling.
4Despite its limited range, the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove exhibits strong site fidelity, often returning to the same nesting areas annually.
5The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove's feeding behavior includes a unique 'peck and step' motion to efficiently gather seeds.
6This dove's subtle wing iridescence becomes most apparent when observed in direct sunlight.
7The Bare-eyed Ground-Dove shares its habitat with several other endemic Andean bird species, contributing to the region's biodiversity.

Bare-eyed Ground-Dove Conservation Status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently lists the Bare-eyed Ground-Dove as a species of Least Concern, indicating a stable population trend. However, habitat destruction and degradation pose significant threats, particularly due to agricultural expansion and land use changes in the Andes. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and management, ensuring the preservation of the montane regions they depend on. Historical population data suggest stability, but ongoing monitoring is necessary to detect any shifts in abundance or distribution. Protecting key habitats and mitigating human impact remains paramount to the dove's continued survival.