It is a ground-feeding, rock-dwelling bird of arid, coastal regions, at altitudes of 75-750 m (though once seen at 1,425 m) (Ash and Miskell 1998). It is generally resident but shows some local seasonal movements (Ash and Miskell 1998). It feeds in small groups, mainly on the ground, on seeds, cultivated grains and berries, and gathers in flocks to drink (Sinclair and Ryan 2003, Baptista et al. 2020). Very little is known of its breeding ecology, thought to breed at least from May to August included, nesting in the roofs of caves (Ash and Miskell 1998, Baptista et al. 2020).

Columba oliviae is a locally common species endemic to north-east Somalia (Ash and Miskell 1998). It has been found from the Woqooyi Galbeed region eastwards, where it is suspected to reach Cap Guardafui and south down the east coast as far as the Mudug region (Ash and Miskell 1998, Sinclair and Ryan 2003, eBird 2023). At least two observations have been recorded in the past five years, both from the Woqooyi Galbeed region in 2021 (eBird 2023). Records from the past 20 years (i.e., since 2005) have included areas around Galgala, and the Togdheer region (J. Miskell in litt. 2006, eBird 2023).  More work is urgently required to improve understanding of the extent of the species' distribution.

Conservation Actions Underway
Occurs in the North Somali Mountains EBA. No targeted conservation actions for this species are known. 

Conservation Actions Proposed
Survey and monitor populations in suitable habitat within known range in order to improve the knowledge of the species' population size, trend, ecology, and the threats it may face.