Ptilinopus dupetithouarsii
The White-capped Fruit Dove (*Ptilinopus dupetithouarsii*) is a striking avian jewel of the remote Marquesas Islands, famed for its vibrant green plumage. Measuring approximately 24-25 cm (9.4-9.8 inches) in length, this arboreal species is readily identified by its distinctive crisp white cap, extending from the forehead to the mid-crown, which contrasts sharply with its overall emerald body. Its underparts often have a yellowish-green tint, while the undertail coverts boast a rich, deep red...
Found in moist tropical and subtropical broadleaf forests, it inhabits wooded valleys and highland areas from sea level up to mid-elevations.
Primarily frugivorous, its diet consists almost entirely of small fruits and berries, which it plucks directly from tree branches in the canopy.
Predominantly arboreal and diurnal, the White-capped Fruit Dove spends its days high in the forest canopy, often moving quietly and secretively among the foliage. Its primary foraging strategy involves delicately plucking ripe fruits and berries directly from branches, showcasing a specialized fr...
The White-capped Fruit Dove is strictly endemic to the remote Marquesas Islands, an archipelago within French Polynesia in the Pacific Ocean. Its breeding range encompasses most of the larger islands across the group. Two recognized subspecies exist: *P. d. dupetithouarsii* is found in the northe...
Least Concern
- The White-capped Fruit Dove is an emblem of island endemism, found exclusively within the remote Marquesas archipelago. - Its iridescent green plumage provides exceptional camouflage within the dense, sun-dappled tropical forest canopy. - Belonging to the genus *Ptilinopus*, it is part of a spe...