Metallic Pigeon

The Metallic Pigeon, known scientifically as Columba vitiensis and colloquially as the White-throated Pigeon, is a medium-sized bird reaching up to 37 cm in length. It is a member of the diverse Columbidae family.

Identification Tips

Adults of this species boast an iridescent crown shimmering with purple and green hues, complemented by black wing and uppertail coverts. Their eyes are framed by a yellowish-red iris and encircled by red orbital skin, while their bill is a striking yellow. The chin and ear coverts range from white to grey, and their feet are a purplish hue. The underparts may vary from a dull chestnut to a glossed purple-green, depending on the subspecies. The nominate form from Fiji presents duller underparts, whereas the Maluku Islands' subspecies exhibits the most vibrant iridescence. Both sexes appear similar, with the juveniles being somewhat duller than the adults.

Habitat

The Metallic Pigeon is found in the tropical forests, where it is a resident bird.

Distribution

This species has a wide range across the southwest Pacific, including eastern Indonesia, the Philippines, New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Fiji, New Caledonia, Samoa, and nearby islands. Notably, a subspecies once inhabited Lord Howe Island in Australia but was driven to extinction by hunting around 1853.

Behaviour

The Metallic Pigeon is known to feed on a variety of fruits, grains, seeds, and berries. In its breeding habits, the female typically lays one to two eggs.

Conservation Status

The Metallic Pigeon is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population across its extensive range.