Ducula aurorae
The Polynesian Imperial Pigeon (Ducula aurorae) is a magnificent, large-bodied pigeon endemic to the Society Islands of French Polynesia. Averaging around 45 cm (18 inches) in length and weighing between 600-700 grams, it sports a dark, iridescent plumage, displaying a rich metallic green and purplish sheen that is particularly striking in good light. Its deep, resonant cooing calls are a distinctive field mark, often heard before the bird is seen high in the forest canopy, along with its rob...
Found primarily in dense, mature tropical moist forests, often inhabiting montane slopes and valleys. It prefers areas with abundant fruiting trees, ranging from lowlands up to approximately 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) in elevation.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of large fruits, especially those from native figs (Ficus spp.), palms, and other forest trees. Forages almost exclusively in the arboreal canopy.
This imperial pigeon is primarily diurnal, typically observed foraging alone or in small, loose groups high in the forest canopy, often becoming quite secretive during nesting periods. Foraging involves methodically plucking large fruits directly from branches, with its powerful gape allowing it ...
The Polynesian Imperial Pigeon is strictly endemic to the Society Islands within French Polynesia, with its current distribution primarily confined to the islands of Tahiti and Moorea. Historically, it may have occurred on other high islands in the archipelago, but records are scarce and populati...
Vulnerable
- The Polynesian Imperial Pigeon is one of the largest pigeons in the world, a true giant among its kind. - It is a crucial keystone species, acting as a primary seed disperser for many native trees in its island ecosystem. - Endemic to just two islands, Tahiti and Moorea, in the Society Islands,...