Although it’s a widespread species, the Ruddy Quail-Dove is shy and rarely seen. It typically stays hidden in dense forest, moving quietly on the ground. The adults share nesting duties, with the male often incubating the eggs during the day. Both parents feed the chicks with a nutrient-rich liquid called “pigeon milk,” and later introduce fruits into their diet. The species is known for being fiercely protective. We even observed one adult defending its nest against a snake attack.

This bird favours dense forests with thick undergrowth. In Brazil, it can be found in areas with deep vegetation, typically around in clumps of plants, on broken tree stumps, or amid tangled vines and fallen branches.

We observed nests in Quebrangulo, Alagoas (35 nests).

In Quebrangulo, active nests were found from December to June, especially during the rainy season, with most activity in March and April.

Nests are built low above the ground, usually around 1.5 meters high, and are placed in sheltered spots like plant tangles, stumps, or piles of leaves. These fragile structures are made mostly of dry leaves, small twigs, and petioles. Inside, dry leaves dominate the nest material. Chicks remain hidden on the forest floor, where the adults feed them until they gradually begin exploring the vegetation.