Atoll Fruit Dove

Ptilinopus coralensis

The Atoll Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus coralensis) is a vibrant, small to medium-sized pigeon native to the low-lying atolls and high islands of Micronesia. Measuring approximately 19-21 cm in length and weighing around 60-70 grams, it displays a striking emerald green body plumage, accentuated by a distinctive magenta-purple crown, a white eye-ring, and bright yellow under-tail coverts. Its vivid red feet are another key field mark, contrasting beautifully with its green feathers. Taxonomically, i...

Habitat

The Atoll Fruit Dove exclusively inhabits tropical moist lowland forests, dense coastal thickets, and secondary growth. It is primarily found at low elevations, from sea level up to moderate slopes on volcanic islands, favoring areas with abundant fruiting trees.

Diet

The Atoll Fruit Dove is primarily frugivorous, feeding almost exclusively on a variety of small, soft-shelled fruits, berries, and figs. It forages by gleaning directly from tree and shrub branches in the forest canopy and understory.

Behavior

This diurnal fruit dove is typically observed singly or in small, quiet groups, often congregating at favored fruiting trees. Its foraging strategy involves agile arboreal gleaning, where it carefully plucks fruits directly from branches. While specific territorial behaviors are not extensively d...

Range

The Atoll Fruit Dove is an endemic resident species distributed across numerous atolls and high islands within the central Pacific, primarily in Micronesia. Its main breeding and year-round range encompasses the Eastern Caroline Islands, including larger islands such as Chuuk (Truk), Pohnpei, and...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- The Atoll Fruit Dove's vibrant green plumage and magenta cap make it one of the most visually striking birds of the Micronesian islands. - Despite its bright colors, it can be remarkably hard to spot, often blending seamlessly with the tropical foliage. - It is a vital seed disperser, contribut...

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