Croaking Ground Dove

The Croaking Ground Dove is a small, terrestrial dove found along Ecuador’s arid Pacific lowlands, where it thrives in scrubby habitats, farmland, gardens, and urban parks from sea level up to around 2,400 meters. It occurs year-round and is locally common, often seen in pairs or small groups foraging on the ground and perching on wires, easily recognized by its stout bill with a bright orange base and its peculiar, quacking vocalizations. Globally listed as Least Concern, its population is stable and even increasing in some areas due to its adaptability to human-altered environments. Breeding occurs throughout most of the year, with nests placed in bushes, trees, or even on ledges and earthen banks, and clutch sizes typically range from one to three eggs.