Ducula basilica
The Cinnamon-bellied Imperial Pigeon, Ducula basilica, is a striking arboreal dove endemic to the Moluccas of Indonesia, instantly recognizable by its rich, glossy dark green upperparts that sharply contrast with a distinctive deep cinnamon to chestnut belly and rufous undertail coverts. Measuring approximately 35-40 cm (14-16 inches) in length with a typical pigeon build, it possesses a dark bill, vibrant red irises, and bright red feet, serving as key identification markers. Belonging to th...
This species primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical lowland evergreen forests, though it can occasionally be found in disturbed secondary forests and montane forests up to 1000 meters (3,300 feet) elevation.
The diet consists almost exclusively of fruits, particularly large figs (Ficus spp.), various palm fruits, and nutmeg (Myristica spp.), which are swallowed whole.
Cinnamon-bellied Imperial Pigeons are primarily diurnal and arboreal, spending most of their time in the canopy, often alone or in pairs, occasionally forming small foraging groups. They are expert frugivores, employing a direct foraging strategy, plucking large fruits directly from branches. Whi...
The Cinnamon-bellied Imperial Pigeon is strictly endemic to the northern Moluccas (Maluku Utara) and Sula Islands in eastern Indonesia. Its core breeding range encompasses islands such as Halmahera, Morotai, Ternate, Tidore, Bacan, Obi, and the Sula Archipelago (including Sanana, Mangole, Taliabu...
Near Threatened
- This pigeon is a vital 'garden engineer' in its ecosystem, dispersing seeds of large-fruited trees far and wide, thereby aiding forest regeneration. - Despite its striking coloration, its preference for dense canopy foliage often makes it surprisingly difficult to spot, leading to many encounte...