Ducula radiata
The Grey-headed Imperial Pigeon (Ducula radiata) is a striking and robust fruit-eating pigeon, endemic to the island of Sulawesi and its adjacent smaller islands in Indonesia. Measuring approximately 33-37 cm (13-14.5 inches) in length and weighing between 280-350 grams, this species is easily identified by its contrasting plumage. It features a distinctive pale grey head and upper neck, which sharply differentiates it from its iridescent dark metallic green back, wings, and upper tail. The u...
Primarily inhabits montane and submontane evergreen forests, typically found at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 meters (3,300-9,800 feet).
Strictly frugivorous, it feeds on a wide variety of forest fruits, berries, and occasionally leaves, primarily foraging in the upper canopy.
This diurnal species spends most of its active hours foraging silently within the dense canopy of its montane forest habitat. It employs an arboreal foraging strategy, deftly plucking fruits directly from branches, though it may occasionally descend to the understory for fallen items. Like many p...
The Grey-headed Imperial Pigeon is endemic to the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia, and several small surrounding islands within the Sula Archipelago, including Peleng and Taliabu. It is a resident, non-migratory species, making its entire range also its breeding range. Within Sulawesi, it is widely...
Least Concern
- The Grey-headed Imperial Pigeon is endemic to Sulawesi and a few small adjacent islands, making it a unique inhabitant of the Wallacean biodiversity hotspot. - Its scientific name, 'radiata,' might refer to subtle 'rayed' patterns in its plumage, although the most prominent feature is its contr...