Nilgiri Wood-Pigeon
NameNilgiri Wood-Pigeon
Common NameNilgiri Wood-Pigeon
Scientific NameColumba elphinstonii
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)52.5
Length (cm)41
Weight (g)402.5
Plumage DetailsThe head and underparts are greyish-pink to purplish-grey, while the back and wings are dark slate-grey. A prominent black and white checkered pattern is present on the hindneck. The eyes are reddish-orange, and the bill is pale with a reddish base.
Vocalization / CallA deep, resonant 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'whoo-whoo-whoo' call, often described as mournful or booming.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Western Ghats of India, ranging from southern Maharashtra through Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a pigeon, Distinctive black and white checkered hindneck patch, Greyish head and underparts contrasting with darker back, Reddish-orange eyes, Pale bill with reddish base
Description
This large, dark pigeon is characterized by its greyish head and underparts, contrasting with a darker slate-grey back. A distinctive black and white checkered pattern adorns its hindneck. It is typically found foraging for fruits in the canopy of dense evergreen forests.
