Patagioenas caribaea
The Ring-tailed Pigeon (*Patagioenas caribaea*) is a striking, relatively large forest pigeon endemic to Jamaica, measuring approximately 38-48 cm (15-19 inches) in length and weighing 250-350 grams. Its plumage is predominantly dark slate-grey, often appearing almost black, with a distinctive iridescent sheen of purple and green on the hindneck and mantle, particularly noticeable in good light. The most unambiguous field mark, giving the species its common name, is a broad, conspicuous white...
This pigeon primarily inhabits humid montane broadleaf forests and wet limestone forests, typically found at elevations ranging from 500 to 2000 meters above sea level. It prefers mature, undisturbed forest with a dense canopy.
The Ring-tailed Pigeon is primarily frugivorous, feeding on a wide variety of berries and fruits, especially those of forest trees like the Wild Fig (*Ficus spp.*) and Jamaican Cherry (*Muntingia calabura*), usually foraging high in the canopy.
The Ring-tailed Pigeon is a diurnal species, spending much of its day foraging high in the forest canopy and roosting among the dense foliage of tall trees at night. Its foraging strategy is primarily arboreal, as it plucks fruits directly from branches, often making acrobatic maneuvers to reach ...
The Ring-tailed Pigeon is strictly endemic to the island of Jamaica, where it is a non-migratory resident. Its historical range encompassed suitable forest habitats across the island, but it is now largely restricted to the remaining humid montane broadleaf and wet limestone forests, primarily in...
Vulnerable
- The Ring-tailed Pigeon is the largest native pigeon species in Jamaica, distinguishing it from other smaller doves and pigeons on the island. - Its distinctive white tail band is most visible when the bird is in flight, serving as a key identification mark. - Despite its large size, it is remar...