Geophaps
Letters Dove ( Geophaps scripta )
Geophaps is a genus of pigeons birds. The three belonging to the genus species are exclusively in Australia. Among the best known members of the genus include the Spinifextaube that really stand out for their long, upright Crest. Like the crested pigeon and the Australian ground doves are highly adapted to a soil life and the species of this genus.
Appearance
The species of the genus Geophaps reach a body length of 20-28 centimeters. The smallest species is the Spinifextaube that is with a body length of 20 centimeters smaller than a turtle dove. The letters dove and the Rotbrillentaube be 28 inches long, however.
Rotbrillen and letter pigeon have an almost partridge -like shape. The Spinifextaube other hand, is reminiscent of a quail. The plumage is yellowish - brown to brown. The flight of Geophaps species reminiscent of the pheasants. Characteristic is the whirring noise of the model.
Distribution and habitat
The species of the genus Geophaps are limited in their distribution area to the northwest, north and northeast of Australia. Their habitat is not as arid as is characteristic of the Australian ground doves. The letters dove is a resident of open areas, but keeps mostly to near water. The Rotbrillentaube inhabited interspersed with trees grass land. The Spinifextaube uses of the three types of the driest habitat and inhabits rocky and stony areas, which is passed with low bushes and spinifex grass. She considers herself mostly to just be near small water bodies.
Behavior
All three species are highly adapted to life on the ground. The Spinifextaube almost never flies on trees, but does really fly longer distances. The letters dove flees threat at first continuously and flies relatively late on. All three species build their nest on the ground. The clutch consists of two eggs.
Species
The following three types are to the genus Geophaps:
- Spinifextaube ( Geophaps plumifera )
- Rotbrillentaube ( Geophaps smithii )
- Letters Dove ( Geophaps scripta )