Birds
Diamond dove
geopelia cuneata
IUCN Red ListLeast Concern
Diamond dove
- Description
- The diamond dove is one of the world's smallest doves, measuring just 19–24 cm and weighing around 30–40 g. Its blue-grey plumage is scattered with the white wing spots that give the bird its name, and a striking orange-red ring encircles each eye. Hens are duller than the cocks. Gentle and undemanding, it is one of the most popular aviary birds worldwide.
- Habitat
- Inhabits the dry and semi-arid interior of Australia — grassy plains, scrub and open woodland, usually within reach of water.
- Diet
- Feeds mainly on small grass and herb seeds gathered from the ground, occasionally taking tiny insects.
- Reproduction
- Builds a flimsy twig nest in which the hen usually lays two white eggs. Both parents share the roughly 13–14 day incubation, and the young leave the nest after about two weeks.
- Lifespan
- Around 5–7 years in the wild, commonly 10 years or more under human care.
- Did you know?
- Despite its tiny size it is one of Australia's most widespread doves, and its soft, drawn-out cooing carries surprisingly far.
Homeland & habitat
Where the diamond dove lives
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AustraliaThe diamond dove comes from Australia's arid interior, where it lives on grassy plains and scrub near water.
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Native range
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10 facts about the diamond dove
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Conservation status
Species vulnerability index
Least Concern
Near Threatened
Vulnerable
Endangered
Critically Endangered
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