Ptilinopus solomonensis
The Yellow-bibbed Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus solomonensis) is a vibrant and relatively small member of the pigeon and dove family, Columbidae, renowned for its strikingly colorful plumage. Measuring approximately 20-24 cm (8-9.5 inches) in length, this species is predominantly emerald green, adorned with a distinctive bright yellow patch, or 'bib', on its chest, giving it its common name. Its head is often a soft grey, contrasting with a reddish vent and undertail coverts, while the wings and tai...
This species primarily inhabits lowland and hill primary rainforests, extending into mature secondary growth and forest edges. It typically forages in the sub-canopy and canopy layers, rarely descending to the ground.
The diet consists almost exclusively of a variety of arboreal fruits, with a strong preference for figs (Ficus species), as well as berries and other soft fruits found in the forest canopy. They forage by gleaning fruits directly from branches while perched.
Yellow-bibbed Fruit Doves are primarily arboreal and diurnal, spending their days foraging high in the forest canopy and sub-canopy. They are generally observed singly or in pairs, though small, loose flocks may form around abundant fruiting trees. Their foraging strategy involves carefully glean...
The Yellow-bibbed Fruit Dove is endemic to the Bismarck Archipelago and the Solomon Islands, maintaining a resident presence across its entire distribution. In the Bismarck Archipelago, it is found on New Britain, New Ireland, New Hanover, and various smaller surrounding islands, including the Ma...
Least Concern
- The 'bib' that gives this dove its name is a brilliant patch of pure yellow on its chest, a vibrant contrast to its emerald green body. - Despite their vivid colors, Yellow-bibbed Fruit Doves are surprisingly difficult to spot in the dense forest canopy, often blending perfectly with the foliag...