Ruddy Quail-Dove vs Key West Quail-Dove

In short

The Ruddy Quail-Dove and Key West Quail-Dove are both ground-dwelling pigeons that can be tricky to differentiate. The most reliable field mark is the facial pattern: the Ruddy Quail-Dove has a more uniform face, while the Key West Quail-Dove features a distinct white facial stripe. Both species are elusive and often seen walking on the forest floor.

Identification tips

1. Look for the white facial stripe on the Key West Quail-Dove. 2. Note the uniform ruddy plumage of the Ruddy Quail-Dove. 3. Observe the habitat: Key West Quail-Doves may be found in more varied woodland environments. 4. Both species are elusive and may require patience to observe.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of quail-doves, and size alone is not a reliable differentiator.

Plumage

The Ruddy Quail-Dove has a more uniformly ruddy or cinnamon-brown plumage, while the Key West Quail-Dove displays a more contrasting plumage with a white facial stripe and a more iridescent neck.

Behaviour

Both species are shy and prefer to forage solitarily or in pairs on the ground, walking stealthily under dense cover.

Habitat

Ruddy Quail-Doves are found in fragmented forests and thick cover, while Key West Quail-Doves inhabit semi-arid and humid woodlands, scrub, and forests.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for field differentiation between these two species.