GROUND-FEEDING PIGEONS AND DOVES 
9i 
is feeding on the ground. Owing to its large size and the excellence of its 
flesh, it was killed in great numbers before being protected. Its call is a 
loud, high-pitched, resonant “Coo-coo-coo” repeated many times, which 
can be heard at least half a mile away. Food: seeds of grasses and herb¬ 
aceous plants, natives fruits and berries, and insects, procured on the 
ground. 
Nest .—An open, almost flat or slightly cup-shaped structure, com¬ 
posed of sticks and twigs. Usually placed on a horizontal branch of a 
tree, at heights up to 30 feet from the ground. 
Eggs .—-Usually two, pure white. Breeding-season: normally October 
to January. 
