Ducula myristicivora
The Spice Imperial Pigeon (Ducula myristicivora) is a striking member of the Columbidae family, endemic to the lush forests of eastern Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. Measuring approximately 33-36 cm (13-14 inches) in length, this robust pigeon boasts a predominantly pale grey head, neck, and underparts, contrasting sharply with its iridescent dark metallic green back, wings, and tail. A key field mark, particularly prominent in males, is a distinctive black warty knob situated at the base of...
Resides primarily in lowland and hill primary and secondary forests, frequently found near coastal areas, mangroves, and on small offshore islands, typically up to 1000 meters elevation.
Feeds primarily on large fruits, including figs and nutmeg (*Myristica*), and various other forest fruits, foraged directly from tree branches.
The Spice Imperial Pigeon is largely diurnal, often observed foraging high within the forest canopy during the day and congregating in communal roosts at dusk. These pigeons are highly frugivorous, employing an arboreal foraging strategy to pluck fruits directly from branches, often traveling con...
The Spice Imperial Pigeon is an endemic resident of the Wallacea region, specifically distributed across various islands of eastern Indonesia and extending into parts of Papua New Guinea. Its primary range encompasses the Moluccas (Maluku Islands), including larger islands such as Halmahera, Cera...
Least Concern
- The Spice Imperial Pigeon gets part of its scientific name, *myristicivora*, from its preference for *Myristica* trees, the source of nutmeg. - Despite its robust appearance, it builds a remarkably flimsy, almost transparent, stick nest high in the canopy, a common trait among pigeons and doves...