Island Imperial Pigeon
NameIsland Imperial Pigeon
Common NameIsland Imperial Pigeon
Scientific NameDucula pistrinaria
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)41
Weight (g)525
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and underparts are pale grey to whitish. The back, wings, and tail are iridescent dark green to bluish-green. A distinctive feature is the rufous-chestnut undertail coverts. The bill is pale grey with a darker tip, and the eyes are reddish with reddish-pink feet.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a deep, booming series of coos, often described as 'whoo-whoo-whoo' or 'coo-coo-coo', characteristic of imperial pigeons.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to the Bismarck Archipelago, Solomon Islands, and some islands off the coast of New Guinea in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Pale grey head and underparts, Iridescent green upperparts, Rufous-chestnut undertail coverts, Reddish eyes and feet
Description
The Island Imperial Pigeon is a large, striking pigeon found in tropical island forests. It is characterized by its pale grey head and underparts contrasting with iridescent green upperparts. This species is typically observed foraging for fruit high in the canopy.
