Ocyphaps lophotes
The Crested Pigeon (Ocyphaps lophotes) is a distinctive medium-sized Australian dove, easily recognized by its prominent, slender, and erect black crest, a feature unique among Australian pigeons. Measuring 30-34 cm (12-13.4 in) in length and weighing 150-250 g (5.3-8.8 oz), its plumage is predominantly grey with subtle brown tones, darker primary flight feathers, and a striking bronze-green iridescent patch on its wings, bordered by white wing bars. A bright orange or red eye-ring further en...
Found primarily in open woodlands, grasslands, farmlands, and urban parks and gardens across mainland Australia. It thrives in low-elevation areas with access to water.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on a wide variety of seeds from grasses, herbs, and weeds, supplemented by green shoots and occasional small insects. All foraging occurs on the ground.
Crested Pigeons are diurnal, frequently observed foraging on the ground in small to large flocks, especially near water sources. They exhibit a characteristic steady walk, pecking at seeds, and flicking their tails upwards with each step. When startled, they take flight explosively, producing a d...
The Crested Pigeon is endemic to mainland Australia, with a widespread distribution across most of the continent. It successfully inhabits diverse environments, from open woodlands and grasslands to agricultural fields and urban centers, largely avoiding dense rainforests and the most extreme ari...
Least Concern
- The Crested Pigeon is often affectionately called the 'whistling pigeon' due to the distinctive, almost mechanical, whistling sound produced by its specialized primary wing feathers during takeoff and landing. - It is the only pigeon species in Australia that possesses a prominent, erect crest....