These were the most common and widespread doves throughout Puerto Rico. We encountered them in almost all habitats from urban lowlands to mountain forests. This species was formerly absent from Puerto Rico but has been expanding its range since the mid 20th century. It was first recorded in Puerto Rico in 1943. The change has apparently been quite rapid. My 1998 "Guide to birds of West Indies" still lists it as uncommon in Puerto Rico as does BNA.
This is presumably the nominate race which occurs from Texas to Nicaragua, through the Greater Antilles and Bahamas and recently in Florida. It is said to be smaller and darker than Z. a. mearnsi which replaces it in arid regions of the far western United States, but differences are slight and individual variation is high. A third race from southern Central America is considered doubtful by HBW.
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