Species profile
About this species
The White-throated Quail-Dove is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling dove found in the Andean cloud forests of South America. It is characterised by its rich rufous-brown upperparts, white throat patch, and distinctive facial markings including a white stripe below the eye. This secretive species forages quietly on the forest floor, making it a challenging but rewarding bird to observe.
Humid montane cloud forests and forest understorey along the Andes, typically found at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 metres, where it forages among leaf litter on shaded forest floors.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph White-throated Quail-Dove with us in Colombia.
These departures are part of our South America programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning hours shortly after dawn offer the best opportunities, as the species is most active while foraging on the forest floor before midday. On the Ultimate Birds of Colombia trip in September 2027, cool misty mornings in the Andean cloud forest zone are ideal, as birds tend to be more active during overcast conditions typical of that season.
Move slowly & quietly along shaded forest trails in Colombia's cloud forests, as this dove is easily flushed and will disappear into dense undergrowth. Position yourself low to the ground to achieve eye-level shots when the bird is foraging, using a monopod for stability in low-light forest conditions. Use a wide aperture lens to compensate for the dim forest understorey & allow a fast enough shutter speed to freeze any movement.
Available holidays
Trips featuring White-throated Quail-Dove
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.
