Ducula pistrinaria
The Island Imperial Pigeon (Ducula pistrinaria) is a magnificent and robust arboreal pigeon, typically measuring 38-44 cm in length and weighing between 450-650 grams. Its plumage is generally dark and glossy, with iridescent bronzy-green or purplish-black upperparts that shimmer in the sunlight, contrasting with a paler grey head, neck, and underparts, which transition to distinctive deep rufous or chestnut undertail coverts. A key field mark is its overall large size and the striking color ...
Primarily inhabits tropical lowland and lower montane forests, including coastal forests, mangrove edges, and secondary growth on islands, typically found from sea level up to 1500 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, specializing in large, fleshy fruits, particularly figs (Ficus species), as well as drupes and berries, consumed whole by plucking directly from trees.
This diurnal pigeon is most active during the early morning and late afternoon, foraging for fruit and often roosting conspicuously in tall forest trees or along coastal fringes. Its foraging strategy involves plucking ripe fruits directly from tree branches, often performing acrobatic maneuvers ...
The Island Imperial Pigeon is resident across a wide but fragmented insular distribution in the southwestern Pacific. Its primary breeding range extends throughout the Bismarck Archipelago, including major islands such as New Britain, New Ireland, New Hanover, and Manus, as well as numerous small...
Least Concern
- The Island Imperial Pigeon is a vital 'keystone species' in its island ecosystems, acting as a crucial long-distance seed disperser for many tropical plants. - Its large gape allows it to swallow impressively large fruits whole, which are then digested, and seeds are dispersed intact. - Despite...