Zebra Dove Overview
Appearance
The Zebra Dove, also known as the Peaceful Dove, is a small, slender bird species with a gentle appearance. It has a pale grayish-brown plumage overall, featuring intricate black and white stripes on its neck and breast, resembling a zebra’s stripes, hence its name.
The face is marked with a blue-gray patch around the eyes and a striking black line that runs from the beak through the eyes. These doves have dark eyes and legs, and their tails are long and slender, often with white tips. Overall, they exhibit a delicate and elegant demeanor.
Origins And Evolution
The Zebra Dove, scientifically known as Geopelia striata, traces its origins and evolution to the vast expanse of the Indo-Australian region. Belonging to the family Columbidae, this species likely diverged from its ancestral lineage in response to the ecological niches presented by the diverse landscapes of Southeast Asia and neighboring regions.
Over time, it developed its distinctive appearance, including the zebra-like stripes on its neck and breast, which offer camouflage within its habitat. The Zebra Dove’s evolution reflects its adaptation to a terrestrial lifestyle, where it thrives in a variety of environments, from open woodlands to urban areas.
Behavior and Lifestyle
Zebra Doves are known for their peaceful and gentle behavior. They are ground-dwelling birds and are often seen foraging for seeds and grains on the forest floor or in open areas. These doves are social and are typically found in pairs or small flocks.
They have a melodic cooing call that they use for communication and courtship. Zebra Doves are monogamous and form strong pair bonds, with both partners sharing in the responsibilities of nesting and raising their young.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves
- Order: Columbiformes
- Family: Columbidae
- Genus: Geopelia
- Species: Geopelia striata
Zebra Dove Locations
- Southeast Asia
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Thailand
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
- Singapore
- Brunei
- East Timor
Fast Facts
- Name: Zebra Dove
- Scientific Name: Geopelia striata
- Habitat: Urban Areas
- Diet: Seed Eater
- Physical Features: Striped Plumage
- Nocturnal: Diurnal Rooster
- Solitary: Lone Forager
- Unique Order: Columbiformes Family
- Lifespan: Years Long
- Conservation Status: Least Concern
- Fun Facts: Melodious Songbird
Physical Characteristics
- Color: Brown Stripes
- Skin Type: Feathered Plumage
- Top Speed: Ground Forager
- Lifespan: Years Long
- Weight: Light Bird
- Length: Small Size
- Age of Sexual Maturity: Mating Age
- Age of Weaning: Maternal Care
Zebra Dove FAQs
What is a Zebra Dove?
The Zebra Dove (Geopelia striata) is a small bird species found in Southeast Asia known for its distinctive black and white striped plumage on its neck and breast.
What is the habitat of Zebra Doves?
Zebra Doves inhabit a variety of environments including urban areas, woodlands, grasslands, and open country.
What do Zebra Doves eat?
Their diet mainly consists of seeds, grains, and insects.
Are Zebra Doves nocturnal or diurnal?
Zebra Doves are diurnal, which means they are active during the day.
Do Zebra Doves live alone or in groups?
Zebra Doves are often found in pairs or small groups.
How long do Zebra Doves live?
In the wild, they typically live for about 5 to 10 years.
How big are Zebra Doves?
They are small birds, measuring about 20 to 23 centimeters (7.9 to 9.1 inches) in length.