Croaking Ground Dove

The Croaking Ground Dove is a small, compact dove with a short tail, rounded wings, and a warm brown body that blends easily into dry scrub and open fields. Its head and breast are soft gray‑brown, the wings show darker spotting, and the belly is paler, giving it a subtly patterned look. A thin, pale eyering and a slightly decurved bill add to its gentle expression, while its overall shape is squat and ground‑oriented, perfectly suited to its terrestrial habits.

• Species eBird Ecuador Link: Croaking Ground Dove

In Ecuador, the Croaking Ground Dove is widespread in arid and semi‑arid regions of the west, including coastal lowlands, dry valleys, agricultural areas, and scrubby foothills. It is generally common and often seen walking on the ground, feeding on seeds in open areas, or perched on low wires and shrubs. Its adaptability to human‑modified landscapes has allowed it to thrive even where natural dry forest has been heavily altered.

One of the most interesting aspects of this dove is its voice: the “croaking” call that gives the species its name is a low, frog‑like series of notes unlike the coos of most pigeons and doves. It also has a habit of running rather than flying when disturbed, relying on its quick, darting movements to escape danger. In some areas it forms small feeding groups, and its ability to exploit agricultural fields has made it a familiar companion in many rural landscapes.