It is a member of a clade of Patagioenas that contains the smaller and rather plain species with characteristic calls[2] that constitute the subgenus Oenoenas.

[3] It is found in lowland forest canopy and semi-open woodland, and builds a rudimentary platform nest out of twigs 5–30 m (16–98 ft) high in a tree or amongst vines.

The tail and primary flight feathers are blackish, the bill is black, and the legs and eyes are purple-red.

[3] It is normally sighted in pairs as it forages in the tree tops for mistletoe, fruits and berries, but may also be seen on tracks and roadsides seeking grit or small invertebrates.

In southern Central America, this species is replaced at higher altitudes by its close relative, the very similar ruddy pigeon, Patagioenas subvinacea.