Bar-shouldered Dove

Bar-shouldered Dove, Adelaide Zoo, South Australia

Bar-shouldered Doves can be found in eastern and northern Australia.  Sadly I’ve only ever seen this beautiful species in the natural environment on one occasion – nearly 30 years ago in northern NSW. I need to get out and travel a little more! The above photo was taken in a walk through aviary at the Adelaide Zoo (click the image to enlarge).

This species is found in a variety of habitats, including subtropical scrublands,  eucalyptus woodlands, gorges and gullies, near creeks and swamps and even in gardens with plenty of trees. Like many other species of pigeons and doves, they make a flimsy platform of a few sticks which serves somehow as a nest.

Further reading:

• Flock Bronzewing Pigeon
• Spotted Turtledove nesting
• Peaceful dove in our garden
• Great birding moments – Crested Pigeon