Ptilinopus rarotongensis
The Lilac-crowned Fruit Dove (*Ptilinopus rarotongensis*) is a stunning and enigmatic member of the pigeon and dove family (Columbidae), endemic to the verdant islands of the Cook Islands. Measuring approximately 20-24 cm (8-9.5 inches) in length and weighing around 80-100 grams, this plump, medium-sized dove is predominantly emerald green, providing excellent camouflage against its lush forest habitat. Its most distinctive feature, and the origin of its common name, is the brilliant lilac-pu...
This arboreal species primarily inhabits lowland and montane tropical forests, including primary growth, secondary forests, and well-vegetated gardens, from sea level up to the highest elevations of its island range.
Predominantly frugivorous, the Lilac-crowned Fruit Dove consumes a wide variety of small fruits and berries, which it plucks directly from trees. It occasionally supplements its diet with small insects or flower buds.
The Lilac-crowned Fruit Dove is a generally shy and cryptic bird, often observed singly or in small, loose groups high in the forest canopy, making it challenging to spot despite its vibrant plumage. It forages deliberately, plucking fruits directly from branches, and its activity peaks during th...
The Lilac-crowned Fruit Dove (*Ptilinopus rarotongensis*) is strictly endemic to the Cook Islands, an archipelago in the South Pacific. Its core distribution, and the nominate subspecies, is found exclusively on the mountainous island of Rarotonga. However, several other subspecies are recognized...
Near Threatened
- The Lilac-crowned Fruit Dove is an island endemic, found only in the Cook Islands, making it a truly unique species to this small part of the world. - Its vivid green plumage provides surprisingly effective camouflage amidst the dense tropical canopy, often making it difficult to spot despite i...