Some comparative notes on the Peaceful and Zebra Doves (Geopelia striata ssp.) with reference to their taxonomic status

Abstract

Three forms of dove have been grouped in the species Geopelia striata – the Peaceful Dove G. s. placida of Australia: the Timor Dove G. s. maugeus of Timor and the Tanimbar Islands: and the Zebra Dove G. s. striata of Malaya and the East Indies. All three differ in the pattern and colour of the under-side and the Peaceful Dove is smaller and differs in the proportions of bill, legs, and wings. These differences are tabulated. The Peaceful Dove also differs in having a juvenile plumage like that of the other Australian Geopelia species. The Peaceful and Zebra Doves have different advertisement calls, that of the latter being longer and more complex, and the close contact or growl calls differ. In view of these differences the Peaceful Dove, and possibly all three forms, should perhaps be regarded as separate species until the relationships can be more clearly established.