Here at our Costa Rican retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we take pride in sharing the symphony of nature with our guests. Today, our avian spotlight falls on a visitor with a touch of wine in its feathers – the Ruddy Pigeon (Patagioenas subvinacea).

These largish pigeons, measuring around 28 cm (11 inches) in length, bring a splash of color to the mountain canopy. Their plumage boasts a rich, wine-purple hue that deepens to a rufous brown on the back. This warmth is contrasted by a sleek, dark brown tail and primary flight feathers.

Keep an eye out for the subtle details that distinguish the Ruddy Pigeon. Their irises are a warm brown, unlike the Plumbeous Pigeon, a close relative, which has a cooler brown eye. The Ruddy Pigeon also sports a shorter, black bill compared to its plumbeous counterpart.

While you might be tempted to search for them perched on power lines like some of their urban pigeon cousins, the Ruddy Pigeon prefers a wilder habitat. Look for them flitting through the mature forests and the sub-canopy, particularly along the foothills of the Andes, where they’ve been spotted at elevations up to 1900 meters. They’re also known to inhabit the humid and semi-deciduous forests of Tumbes in northwestern Costa Rica.

These forest dwellers are not shy, but they’re also uncommon. Patience is key! If you’re lucky enough to spot one, keep your ears peeled for their characteristic calls, a distinguishing feature of the subgenus Oenoenas to which they belong.

The Ruddy Pigeon’s diet consists mainly of fruits and seeds, which they glean from the forest floor and the canopy. They play a vital role in seed dispersal, helping to regenerate the very forest they call home.

Thankfully, the Ruddy Pigeon enjoys a healthy conservation status of “Least Concern” according to the IUCN. However, as with all our avian friends, habitat protection remains paramount. By choosing eco-friendly practices and supporting sustainable initiatives, we can all contribute to ensuring the continued beauty and wonder of these forest jewels.

So, on your next nature walk here at our mountain retreat, keep your eyes peeled for a flash of wine-red amongst the verdant foliage. With a little patience, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of the Ruddy Pigeon, a captivating resident of the Costa Rican highlands.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica