Trocaz Pigeon
From Freepedia
| Trocaz Pigeon Conservation status: Lower risk (cd) | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scientific classification | ||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||
| Binomial name | ||||||||||||||
| Columba trocaz Heineken, 1829 |
The Trocaz Pigeon (Columba trocaz) is a member of the family Columbidae (doves and pigeons) which is endemic to Madeira. It can also be found on the island of La Gomera, in the Garajonay National Park.
It is a scarce resident breeder in caves and on mountains in the laurel forest zone, where only a few hundred pairs remain.
At 42–45 cm, it looks like a large Wood Pigeon. It is a basically grey bird, with a pinkish breast. It lacks any white markings, which together with a silvery neck patch distinguishes it from the other species of Columba.
Trocaz Pigeon breeds in caves, laying one white egg in a nest on a ledge. Its flight is quick, performed by regular beats, with an occasional sharp flick of the wings, characteristic of pigeons in general. It takes off with a loud clattering.
The call is a characteristic cooing doo-doh, like Wood Pigeon.
