Ptilinopus roseicapilla
The Mariana Fruit Dove (*Ptilinopus roseicapilla*) is a jewel of the Western Pacific, a small, compact pigeon measuring approximately 24 cm (9.4 inches) in length and weighing around 90-100 grams (3.2-3.5 ounces). Males are particularly striking, featuring a vibrant rose-pink cap that extends from the forehead to the crown, contrasting sharply with their iridescent emerald-green body plumage. A yellowish-orange wash often adorns the belly, while the undertail coverts are bright yellow, and a ...
This species primarily inhabits native limestone forests, secondary growth, and coastal thickets, often favoring areas with dense tree cover; it can also be found in urban parks with abundant fruit trees, typically at low to mid-elevations.
The Mariana Fruit Dove is predominantly frugivorous, consuming a variety of small native and introduced fruits and berries, and occasionally small insects, which it plucks directly from the forest canopy.
Mariana Fruit Doves are diurnal birds, spending their days foraging actively within the forest canopy and typically roosting solitarily or in pairs amongst dense foliage at night. Their foraging strategy is specialized, involving agile movements through branches to pluck small fruits and berries ...
The Mariana Fruit Dove is endemic to the Mariana Islands, an archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean. Historically, its range encompassed most of the larger islands, including Guam, Saipan, Tinian, Rota, Aguijan, Pagan, and Alamagan. However, its distribution has become significantly fragmented ...
Near Threatened
- The Mariana Fruit Dove's scientific name, *Ptilinopus roseicapilla*, translates roughly to "rose-capped soft-foot," referring to its distinctive pink cap and soft-toed feet. - Unlike many doves, fruit doves like the Mariana Fruit Dove do not typically drink water, obtaining all necessary moistu...