Macropygia nigrirostris
The Bar-tailed Cuckoo-Dove (*Macropygia nigrirostris*) is a captivating member of the Columbidae family, endemic to the tropical forests of New Guinea and its surrounding archipelagos. This medium-sized dove, measuring approximately 29-31 cm (11.4-12.2 inches) in length, is characterized by its exceptionally long, graduated tail, which bears distinct dark bars against a rufous-chestnut background-a key field mark that gives the species its name. Males boast a rich rufous-chestnut plumage on t...
Found primarily in lowland and montane tropical rainforests, forest edges, and secondary growth, from sea level up to 2,400 meters, preferring undisturbed areas.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of small to medium-sized fruits, berries, and seeds, which it plucks directly from trees and shrubs.
Diurnal in activity, the Bar-tailed Cuckoo-Dove is typically observed singly or in pairs, occasionally forming small, loose flocks while foraging. Its foraging strategy is predominantly arboreal, where it skillfully gleans fruits and berries directly from trees and shrubs. While specific details ...
The Bar-tailed Cuckoo-Dove is endemic to the Australasian ecozone, with its primary distribution across the island of New Guinea. Its range also extends to the Bismarck Archipelago, including islands such as New Britain, New Ireland, New Hanover, and Manus. Further eastward, it inhabits numerous ...
Least Concern
- The scientific name "nigrirostris" literally means "black-billed," a defining characteristic of this cuckoo-dove. - Its remarkably long, barred tail serves as excellent camouflage amidst the dappled light and tangled branches of the rainforest understory and canopy. - Like many cuckoo-doves, it...