Aplopelia larvata

Defined as a plump, medium-sized dove of the forest floor, the lemon or cinnamon dove is definitely one of Southern Africa’s most beautiful and also most skittish. With its irredescent green-bronze hind crown, nape and mantle, conspicuous white face markings and cinnamon underparts, this special dove differs from other doves of the genus Columba by its terrestrial habits.

My most memorable moment with this species took place at Dlinza Forest in Eshowe. The doves frequent the bird hide near the main office where they are given regular water and seed. This makes them the tamest lemon doves I have ever encountered and allowed for some lovely photographs, despite the difficult light conditions.