Canada ground pigeon (SciiFii)

The Canada ground pigeon (Neotrugon canadensis), also known as the Canadian ground pigeon, is a species of pigeon that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the rainforests, wetlands, forests, and open woodlands across North America to help boost biodiversity. Despite resembling the thick-billed ground pigeon (Trugon terrestris) of New Guinea, the closest living relative of the Canada ground pigeon is the mourning dove (Zenaida macroura). This robust species grows to a length of 33 centimeters (13 inches); the sexes are similar in appearance. The upper parts are a uniform bluish-grey or brownish-grey, the breast is grey and the belly orangey-buff. The beak is broad with a pale tip, the ear coverts are pale and there is a short crest on the nape. The underwing coverts are boldly streaked in black and white but the tail is unbanded. The legs are pink. The Canada ground pigeon usually forages alone, but is sometimes seen in pairs. It is generally shy, staying mainly on the ground and running away into the undergrowth when disturbed, but launching itself vigorously into the air with rapidly beating wings when it feels threatened. It flicks its tail downwards frequently as it walks. It feeds on fruits, nuts, and seeds that have fallen to the ground, but will also feed on leaves and pine needles to supplement its diet. It picks up fruit with its beak and hammers it on the ground to split it, exposing and eating the seeds. Small items are swallowed whole. It sometimes visits the display arenas of several species of American birds-of-paradise in order to forage for regurgitated seeds. This bird roosts at night on low to moderate branches. Breeding seems to take place at any time of year, with nests having been found between February and June. The nest is a hollow in the ground, perhaps concealed between the buttress roots of a large tree. It may be unlined or may incorporate a few twigs or leaves, or may be rather more elaborate. Two or three white eggs are laid and incubated by both parents, the male routinely sitting during the daytime. The fledged chicks stay in its parents' territory for about a month. The conservation status of the Canada ground pigeon is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the Canada ground pigeon's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii