Endemic to Cuba, the Blue-headed Quail-Dove (Starnoenas cyanocephala), is a shy, ground-dwelling bird, known for its distinctive blue head and unique evolutionary history. Research suggests the Blue-headed Quail-Dove diverged from other dove species about 50 million years ago, making it a "biogeographic relict". This means it is a remnant of a much older lineage, with a unique genetic makeup distinct from other doves. A warm-brown dove with a distinctive blue, black, and white pattern on its head, neck, and chest, it usually holds its neck retracted and is typically found in dense forests, particularly on the forest floor.
