Luzon Bleeding Heart Dove

More Information

Physical Description

Luzon bleeding heart doves are white-breasted birds with a gray back and black wing bands, which provide a sharp contrast to their bright red chest plumage. Males attract mates by puffing out their chest to display bright red markings. These birds feed on the forest floor, where they gather seeds, berries, insects, and worms. They nest in low trees, shrubbery, and dense vegetation that provide cover from predators.

Interesting Fact 1

Luzon bleeding heart doves were named for the vivid red marking on their chest, which zoo visitors often mistake for an actual wound.

Interesting Fact 2

Both males and females produce crop milk to feed their young. Despite its name, crop milk is different from true milk, which is only produced by mammals.

Interesting Fact 3

They are highly territorial, with males defending their area with threatening calls and by starting fights that can lead to the death of the losing bird.