Crested Pigeon
NameCrested Pigeon
Common NameCrested Pigeon
Scientific NameOcyphaps lophotes
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsPredominantly grey plumage with a pinkish wash on the breast. The wings feature fine black barring and iridescent green and purple patches on the secondary feathers. It has a striking erect black crest and a bright orange-red eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallA soft, mournful 'coo' call, often repeated. Most notably, its wings produce a distinctive whistling sound during take-off and flight.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across mainland Australia, excluding the densest forests and arid deserts. It has expanded its range due to land clearing and the provision of water for livestock.
Identifying Featureserect black crest, iridescent green and purple wing patches, orange-red eye-ring, whistling sound during flight
Description
The Crested Pigeon is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling pigeon native to Australia, easily recognized by its prominent, slender, erect black crest. It has a distinctive whistling sound produced by its wings during flight, often seen foraging for seeds in open areas.
