Gymnophaps albertisii
The Papuan Mountain Pigeon (*Gymnophaps albertisii*) is a striking medium-sized pigeon, typically measuring 33-36 cm in length and weighing between 250-325 grams. Its plumage is predominantly slate-grey on the upperparts, contrasting sharply with a clean white belly and a distinctive maroon to rufous-chestnut nape patch, which can appear as a blush in certain light. A broad black subterminal band on the grey tail is a key field mark, along with its bright red orbital skin around the eyes. Tax...
This species primarily inhabits montane and cloud forests, ranging from 600 meters up to 3600 meters in elevation, often ascending higher to forage during the day.
This pigeon is predominantly frugivorous, feeding on a wide variety of forest fruits, particularly figs, which it gleans directly from trees and vines in the canopy.
Papuan Mountain Pigeons are highly social and diurnal, engaging in spectacular daily altitudinal movements where large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or even thousands, ascend to higher-elevation foraging grounds each morning and descend to lower-elevation communal roosting sites at ...
The Papuan Mountain Pigeon boasts a wide distribution across the island of New Guinea (encompassing both Indonesian Western New Guinea and Papua New Guinea) and extends eastward through the Bismarck Archipelago and the Solomon Islands. In New Guinea, it is found throughout suitable montane habita...
Least Concern
- Papuan Mountain Pigeons are renowned for their spectacular daily altitudinal migrations, often covering thousands of vertical feet between roosting and feeding sites. - They frequently form large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or even thousands, creating an impressive aerial displa...