La paloma escamada (Columbina squammata) es una paloma de hábitos generalmente discretos, que camina en parejas o pequeños grupos por los bordes de bosques, sabanas, huertos, parques y otros tipos de vegetación, excluyendo la muy abierta o muy cerrada. Su silencio sólo es roto por la vocalización, que el ave sólo emite posada en lugares bien escondidos, y por el ruido producido por las alas cuando el ave levanta el vuelo, semejante a un gemido. Paloma distintiva de color gris pálido con los bordes de las plumas negros que le dan un aspecto escamoso. En vuelo tiene llamativas plumas de vuelo rufo y una cola tricolor (negra, gris y blanca). El canto es una repetición continua fácil de recordar de "pow-co-pow". Muy común; se encuentra en zonas abiertas, bordes de bosques, praderas y zonas urbanas.
Hábitats y distribución
The Scaled Dove inhabits a variety of open and semi-open environments, including savannas, shrublands, agricultural fields, and urban areas. It often thrives in regions with sparse tree coverage but ample ground vegetation, which provides both nesting sites and food sources. The species demonstrates a preference for arid to semi-arid climates, typically avoiding densely forested or very wet areas. Geographically, the Scaled Dove is distributed across much of South America, predominantly found in countries like Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina. Its range extends into parts of Central America, reaching as far north as southern Mexico. This broad distribution demonstrates the dove's adaptability to a wide range of climates and habitats within its preferred environmental parameters.
Comportamiento y reproducción
Scaled Doves exhibit monogamous mating habits, forming long-term pair bonds that often last for multiple breeding seasons. Courtship involves the male performing a series of displays including bowing, cooing, and presenting nest materials to the female. Once paired, both sexes participate actively in nest building, using twigs and grasses to construct a modest platform nest usually located in low bushes or trees. The female typically lays two white eggs, and both parents share incubation duties over approximately 12 to 13 days. Socially, Scaled Doves are known to be relatively gentle and non-territorial, often seen foraging in small groups or pairs. They exhibit a strong pair bond even outside the breeding season, often staying close to their mate. A unique reproductive strategy of these doves includes multiple broods per year, capitalizing on favorable conditions to increase their chances of reproductive success. After hatching, both parents feed the chicks with "pigeon milk," a nutrient-rich secretion produced in their crops, ensuring rapid growth and a higher survival rate for the offspring.
Dieta
Se alimenta en el suelo, caminando con el vientre casi arrastrándose por el suelo. Cuando se asusta, vuela bruscamente hacia los árboles cercanos.
Colores
Paloma distintiva de color gris pálido con los bordes de las plumas negros que le dan un aspecto escamoso. En vuelo presenta llamativas plumas de vuelo rufo y una cola tricolor (negra, gris y blanca).
Datos curiosos
Hace un nido de ramitas en forma de copa, normalmente de 1 o 2 metros de altura, a veces también en el suelo. Pone 2 huevos blancos.
Estado y esfuerzos de conservación
The Scaled Dove (Columbina squammata) is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, largely due to its common presence and stable population trend across its range, which extends from northern Argentina to northern Brazil and includes parts of the Caribbean. Despite its stable population, the species faces localized threats primarily from habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, deforestation, and urbanization. However, these threats have not caused significant population declines on a global scale. Conservation measures for the Scaled Dove include habitat protection and management strategies that mitigate the impact of agricultural and urban development. International efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas within its habitat range, are crucial for maintaining its population stability. Moreover, local conservation initiatives often involve community engagement and education about sustainable land-use practices to help preserve the natural habitats where these doves thrive.
Galería
