Tambourine doves live in the tropical forests of central and southern Africa. They prefer dense woodlands and gardens, as well as cocoa, mango, castor oil and rubber plantations.
The life of a tambourine dove
Tambourine doves are small and plump, growing up to eight inches and weighing up to three ounces. They live an average of 10 years.
They eat mostly fruits and seeds, especially seeds of castor oil plants. They also sometimes eat insects and mollusks. They live alone or in pairs or small groups, but do not flock in large numbers.
Tambourine doves build fragile nests out of twigs and hide them in shrubs or trees. During mating, males bow with their wings open and tail fanned to attract females. After mating, chicks hatch in about two weeks and both parents participate in feeding. After another two weeks, chicks are ready to leave the nest.
The tambourine dove’s name comes from its call, which sounds like a drum. They spend much time feeding on the forest floor. When threatened, however, they are quick and agile flyers. Predators include hawks, falcons and crows, as well as snakes and foxes.
Tambourine doves at the zoo
Located in the Treetops section of the Africa area.
