American brown crested pigeon

The American brown crested pigeon (Psudeogeophaps brunneis) is a species of pigeon that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, scrublands, and deserts across North America to help boost biodiversity. Despite resembling the spinifex pigeon in size, appearance, and lifestyle, the American brown crested pigeon is only distantly related to the spinifex pigeon, and is most closely related to the passenger pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius). The American brown crested pigeon is a small and compact pigeon, which weighs 80-110 grams, has a mean body length of 200-235 mm, and has their wingspan of 300–350 mm. Males are slightly larger than females, and generally difficult to visually differentiate. The plumage is distinctively rufous-brown with thin black bars on the wings and back. The forehead and sides of crown are grey, while the ear coverts are reddish-orange, and the bill is black. The facial markings are bold and distinctive, a bright red facial mask is bordered by a black supercilium and moustacial stripe. A white band extends from the chin to behind the eye and the throat is black. A white stripe is present on the breast, and the legs and feet are grey. There is no seasonal variation in plumage. American brown crested pigeons are unique among many other desert birds in that they are sedentary arid habitat specialists. They are capable of enduring extreme conditions and the availability of drought-resistant seed plants varies greatly with seasonal conditions, often declining substantially during periods of extended drought. They forage on the ground singly, in pairs or small flocks for seeds, vegetable matter and insects, mostly in bare areas between clumps of grasses and occasionally in dry rocky watercourses or dry margins of wetlands. The diet is mainly made up of the seeds of drought-resistant grasses, herbs, and seeds, although fruits and deciduous leaves can be taken. Animals and vegetative material contribute to the diet in trace amounts. American brown crested pigeons will also take some foods given by humans, particularly around camping areas. Foraging mostly occurs early in the morning and late in the afternoon during cooler periods of the day in close proximity to water sources. This species is considered gregarious and sedentary, restricted to habitats within a few kilometres of permanent supply of surface water. They are most often found in pairs or small groups of between four and twenty birds, however, on a rare occasion, have been recorded in a large flock conservatively estimated to number four hundred birds. They are more frequently observed congregating around water sources in small groups for drinking prior to and during the hottest parts of the day around mid-morning and noon. Congregations of larger groups occur during favourable seasonal conditions, with dispersal during less favourable conditions or when numbers build up in good seasons. Flocks have regular home ranges, travelling to and from foraging and watering points as a group. Individuals may move between flocks. American brown crested pigeons usually do not travel long distances to water, requiring permanent water in close proximity to foraging areas. Both natural and man-made water sources are exploited including waterholes and watercourses and stock drinking troughs. On occasion, this species engages in a spectacular bowing display, where the tail is spread erect like fan, the folded wings are raised and the pupils contract. The shining patches of the secondary feathers flash into view at the same time that the black outer tail feathers become visible. The display is not always directed at other individuals and may simply self-assertive. This species also has a head-shaking display that appears as a greeting between pairs and in threat to other individuals. The bird assumes a crouched over position with head lowered and crest flattened and thrusts forward shaking the bill and head. Breeding occurs throughout the year with highest levels during spring and summer, coinciding with peak rainfall periods and increased supply of food. Copulation is performed on the ground. The nest is scratched out in a grass-lined depression on stony ground and may be located within sight of other nesting pairs. Three bluish-cream coloured eggs are laid and incubated by the female for 16 to 18 days by both the male and female. The young are independent at four to six weeks. Average lifespan for wild birds is around 9 to 13 years in age. Large populations can form, however birds disperse and numbers decline following extended periods of extreme drought. After rain, when food supplies increase, there is often a slow recovery in numbers due to local breeding. The conservation status of the American brown crested pigeon is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the American brown crested pigeon's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.