Doves in Zimbabwean Folklore

Doves are almost universally considered as symbols of peace and unity, and this is indeed generally reflected in Zimbabwean folklore. However, they are also regarded as important harbingers, and of the nine species found in the country, the Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola (pictured) and Emerald-spotted Wood-dove Turtur chalcospilos are the two most well recognised in this regard.

A general pattern that emerged from interviews is that the presence of a single dove signifies bad luck, while a pair represents good luck.

A Ring-necked Dove seen to ‘hang’ its head is taken as a sure sign that bad luck will befall the observer, while if a single dove flies in and perches on a homestead and then immediately departs, a single visitor should soon be expected.

Another common belief that I identified is that the call of a single Ring-necked Dove heard near the home heralds an impending visit, while some Venda informed me of their belief that a single dove calling predicts misfortune or bad luck. However, if a pair of doves is observed nearby this foretells good luck or peace in the home.

A further belief, shared by many Ndebele, is that a dove or pigeon resting on one foot heralds bad luck. Persons who keep doves or pigeons are however perceived to be good and trustworthy individuals.

The call of the Emerald Spotted Wood-dove is thought by some Ndebele to predict the death of a family member, and is roughly translated as ‘my mother is dead, my father is dead, my whole family is dead’. This bird is disliked for this reason.

Local names for the Ring-necked Dove in Zimbabwe:

Njiva, Bvukuitwa, Vhukuti – Shona (all dialects)
iCelegwana, iJuba – Ndebele
iNziba, iTuba – Nambya
Leibakgorwana – Venda/Sotho
Chingugani – baTonga

Local names for the Emerald-spotted Wood-dove in Zimbabwe:

Njivamutondo – Shona (all dialects)
iSapipwa – Ndebele
Chipipwa – Nambya
Leiba – Venda/Sotho
Chibili – baTonga