Columbina inca
L 8 1/4" (21 cm).

Song or calls:
Listen (NGPC audio)
Monotonous “coo-hoo,” repeated.

more images

photo by Phil Swanson

Description: Sexes similar. Plumage has scaly, scalloped appearence. Pale gray head and breast; buffy belly with dark cross-barring; brownish-gray mantle. Small black bill, and blue eye ring. Distinctive long narrow tail with white edging. Shows rufous primaries in flight.

Habitat: Found in cactus and mesquite country in its usual range, normally near human habitation. Often found in suburban gardens, city parks, and ranches.

Where in Nebraska: Accidental. Birds were found wintering in Kearney in 1988, and in Keya Paha County during 1989.

Field Notes: The spread of this species into cities has been made possible by watered "oases"-cities and suburbs.

Fun Facts: May roost in a "huddle" formation in the shape of a pyramid to stay warm.