Goura sclaterii
The Sclater's Crowned Pigeon, *Goura sclaterii*, is an exceptionally large and strikingly beautiful terrestrial pigeon, considered among the largest pigeon species globally. Reaching lengths of 70-75 cm (27.5-29.5 inches) and weighing 2-2.5 kg (4.4-5.5 lbs), its most distinctive feature is a spectacular fan-like crest of lacey, blue-grey plumes with white tips, which it can raise or lower. Its plumage is predominantly a rich blue-grey, contrasting sharply with a deep maroon breast and a paler...
This species primarily inhabits lowland primary and secondary rainforests, including swamp forests, typically found near rivers and water bodies at elevations up to approximately 500 meters.
Their diet consists mainly of fallen fruits, especially figs and berries, as well as seeds and occasionally small invertebrates, all gleaned from the forest floor.
Sclater's Crowned Pigeons are diurnal, spending the majority of their day foraging on the forest floor. They typically move in pairs or small family groups, slowly walking and gleaning for fallen fruits and seeds. Males engage in elaborate courtship displays, involving fanning their impressive cr...
The Sclater's Crowned Pigeon is endemic to the southern lowlands of New Guinea. Its primary distribution lies in southeastern Papua New Guinea, specifically to the east of the Fly River, extending into the western Papuan province of Indonesia in the region of the upper Digul River. This distribut...
Endangered
- Sclater's Crowned Pigeon is one of the four species of crowned pigeons, renowned for being the largest pigeons in the world. - Their magnificent, fan-like crests can be raised or lowered, serving as a key visual display. - Unlike most pigeons, they are predominantly terrestrial, spending nearly...