The Grenada dove is a medium-sized bird with soft buff, brown and white feathers. Its call is a gentle, repetitive cooing that you might hear before you spot the bird itself — they are quite shy and like to stay hidden in dry scrub forest near the southwest coast of the island. Unlike many birds, they spend a lot of time on the ground, walking carefully through fallen leaves to look for seeds and berries.
Because there are so few Grenada doves left, the Grenadian government and bird conservation groups work hard to protect the forest where they live. Some of their habitat has been protected as a wildlife sanctuary. Scientists track the population by counting nests and listening for calls each year, hoping the numbers will slowly grow.
The dove holds a special place in Grenada's culture. It is printed on coins, appears in school books and is a symbol of how much Grenadians care about their natural world. Children in Grenada learn about the dove from a young age, and many grow up feeling a sense of responsibility to help keep it safe for the future.