The Common Bronzewing pigeon (Phaps chalcoptera) name originates from the distinctive iridescent patches on the wings of these Australasian birds. When the bird moves in the sun, these wing feathers flash with brilliant, metallic flashes of bronze, green, blue, gold, and copper. The bronzewing family consists of several native Australian species, including the Common Bronzewing, the Brush Bronzewing, and the Flock Bronzewing. It is a ground-dweller, surviving in a variety of dry environments but remaining heavily dependent on being near regular water sources, before roosting in the canopy. During courtship, males arch their wings, raise their tails, and hop at the female while uttering a growling coo. To finish the ritual, instead of feeding the female like many doves do, the male rests his neck over her back until they circle together and mate.
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