Somali Pigeon

C. oliviae is a mid-sized pigeon with pale grey coloration, a mauve cap, yellow eyes and an iridescent collar with bronze-green tones. It has a bluish-gray rump, dark wing edges and dark bands along its tail; all of these features are most clearly seen in flight. Its range overlaps with that of the much darker and more densely spotted speckled pigeon, which is rapidly expanding into the Somali pigeon's territory. Unlike various species of collared doves with which its range overlaps, it lacks a characteristic dark band on the hind-neck. It may also be confused with feral pigeons (C. livia), but the Somali pigeon is smaller and less dark than C. livia.

Vocalizations. As with many other aspects of the species, the Somali pigeon's vocalizations are not well known, but have described as a "wuk-wuk-wuk-ooooh". It also produces other pigeon-like noises, including cooing sounds.

The exact distribution is unclear, but its range encompasses much of northeast Somalia, especially along the coast, including both the country proper and the unrecognized state of Somaliland. It is non-migratory. It is a mostly ground-dwelling bird, found in arid, coastal environments, especially on cliffs and hills, usually found in areas with little vegetation. It is typically seen at altitudes of 75 metres (246 ft) to 750 metres (2,460 ft), but has been recorded as high as 1,425 metres (4,675 ft).

The Somali pigeon's range overlaps with that of other doves, including the speckled pigeon. While uncommon, it can be found in pairs or small flocks. It is often seen feeding on the ground, consuming seeds, cultivated grains and berries.

The bird is featured on the one shilling coin's obverse of the internationally unrecognized East African republic of Somaliland's official currency.