Tambourine Dove (Turtur Tympanistria)

History

The Tambourine Dove known also as the Forest or White Breasted Wood Dove is found in parts of sub-Saharan Africa. They can be a shy bird which is difficult to tame and is best suited to a planted aviary where it can remain inconspicuous. The male of this breed has a colour of dark brown extending from the head down the back and fading to a lighter brown on the underside. The wings often have an olive green hue with a purple sheen with the female of the breed being much duller in appearance. They are around 22cm in length.

The nest is usually built of twigs in a low bush or tangle of vines. The female lays 2 cream coloured eggs and both incubate, although it is the female that does most of the work. Eggs hatch in around 13 - 15 days and the young are fully fledged at 14 days old.

Behaviour

The Tambourine dove is shy and tends to prefer thick woodland and heavy cover. They are ground feeders and feed on seeds, small fruits, berries and sometimes insects.

Breed Details

• Status: Rare
• Life Expectancy: Around 10 years.