Columba palumboides
The Andaman Wood Pigeon (*Columba palumboides*) is a large, robust pigeon, typically measuring between 40 and 42 centimeters in length. Adults are characterized by dusky grey heads and underparts, prominently featuring a striking pale green eye-ring that provides a distinct field mark. The neck and mantle display a beautiful purplish sheen, contrasting with the metallic dark green or bronze-green upperparts, while the lower back and rump are dark slate-grey, and the wings and tail are blackis...
Primarily inhabits undisturbed evergreen and semi-evergreen primary forests, often preferring hilly terrain and lower montane areas up to 700 meters in elevation. It occasionally ventures into secondary growth or forest edges, but relies heavily on intact forest ecosystems.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of forest fruits, including figs, wild nutmegs, and diverse berries, supplemented with seeds. It forages by plucking ripe fruits directly from tree branches or gleaning them from the forest floor.
Generally a shy and secretive species, the Andaman Wood Pigeon is typically observed singly or in small, loose flocks, often foraging high in the forest canopy. It also forages on the forest floor, gleaning fallen fruits and seeds, demonstrating a versatile feeding strategy. Activity is diurnal, ...
This species is strictly endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an archipelago belonging to India in the Bay of Bengal. Within this unique range, it is found on several of the larger islands, including North Andaman, Middle Andaman, South Andaman, Rutland Island, Little Andaman, Great Nicoba...
Near Threatened
- It is one of the largest members of the *Columba* genus, often reaching an impressive length of 42 centimeters. - The Andaman Wood Pigeon is a true island endemic, found exclusively within the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India. - Its striking pale green eye-ring is a distinct and easily reco...