Trocaz Pigeon
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| Columba trocaz Heineken, 1829 |
The Trocaz Pigeon (Columba trocaz) is a member of the family Columbidae (doves and pigeons) which is endemic to Madeira.
It is a scarce resident breeder in caves and on mountains in the laurel forest zone, where 10,000 birds remain.
At 42–45 cm, it looks like a large Wood Pigeon. It is a basically grey bird, with a pinkish breast. It lacks any white markings, which together with a silvery neck patch distinguishes it from the other species of Columba.
Trocaz Pigeon breeds in caves, laying one white egg in a nest on a ledge. Its flight is quick, performed by regular beats, with an occasional sharp flick of the wings, characteristic of pigeons in general. It takes off with a loud clattering.
The call is a characteristic cooing doo-doh, like Wood Pigeon.
[edit] References
- BirdLife International (2004). Columba trocaz. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 11 May 2006. Database entry includes justification for why this species is near threatened
