Retiring, terrestrial dove of humid tropical forest in the lowlands. Heard more frequently than seen. Like other members of the genus, it can be found walking quietly on shady roadsides and trails, especially early and late in the day. It often flushes explosively and flies to a low perch in the understory. Told from White-tipped Dove and Gray-headed Dove by warm brown crown and hindneck, and duskier grayish chest. In flight, all Leptotila doves show white tail corners and rusty under the wings.