Patagioenas araucana
The Chilean Pigeon (Patagioenas araucana) is a striking and substantial New World pigeon, often hailed as one of the largest members of its genus. Averaging 37-40 cm (14.5-15.7 inches) in length and weighing around 300-400 grams (10.5-14 ounces), this species boasts a predominantly slate-grey plumage across its head, back, and upper breast. Distinctive field marks include rich maroon underparts that contrast sharply with its grey upperparts, a conspicuous white nuchal collar on the hind neck,...
Primarily inhabits temperate rainforests and Nothofagus (southern beech) forests, often favoring areas with dense undergrowth. Found from sea level up to 1,200 meters (4,000 feet) in the Andes.
Exclusively frugivorous and herbivorous, primarily consuming a variety of fruits, berries, and seeds from native trees and shrubs, particularly those of Nothofagus and podocarps. Forages both in tree canopies and on the forest floor.
Chilean Pigeons are diurnal, spending their days foraging and typically roosting communally in dense tree canopies at night. Their foraging strategy is predominantly arboreal, feeding on fruits and berries directly from trees, but they will also descend to the forest floor to consume fallen seeds...
The Chilean Pigeon's distribution is concentrated in the temperate forests of southern South America. Its primary breeding range extends from central Chile (specifically from Maule Region southwards) and adjacent southwestern Argentina (from Neuquén south to Tierra del Fuego). Within this extensi...
Least Concern
- The Chilean Pigeon is one of the largest pigeons in the New World genus Patagioenas, rivaling the size of some domestic pigeons. - Its scientific name, Patagioenas araucana, directly references the Araucanía region of Chile and the indigenous Mapuche people, who have a long history alongside th...