Namaqua Dove Oena capensis
Sof Omar, Ethiopia
15 January 2014
Surely one of the most delightful doves imaginable, Namaqua Dove is quite common in the various regions of Africa where it is found. It is tiny, much the smallest of all the African columbids, measuring only 28cm from the tip of its tail to the end of its bill, laid out flat. This male shows its distinctive plumage with jet-black forehead, face, sides of neck and breast. I had last seen this species in South Africa in 2008 and it gave me great pleasure to enjoy its company anew.
