Green Imperial Pigeon

The Green Imperial Pigeon, Ducula aenea, is a sizable and robust forest pigeon. It boasts an impressive length of 45 centimeters, with a resplendent metallic green adorning its back, wings, and tail. The head and underparts present a stark contrast with their pristine white, save for the maroon undertail coverts. Both sexes exhibit similar plumage, making them indistinguishable in the field.

Identification Tips

When observing this species, look for its large size and the striking contrast between the metallic green upperparts and the white head and underparts. The maroon undertail coverts are a key feature to note. Its powerful and resonant call often betrays its presence before it is seen, as it tends to remain high in the treetops.

Habitat

The Green Imperial Pigeon is a denizen of the forest, favoring the lush canopy where it spends much of its time.

Distribution

This species has a broad range that spans from Nepal and southern India, stretching eastward to southern China, and reaching as far as Indonesia and the Philippines. It is a resident breeder across this tropical southern Asian expanse.

Behaviour

The Green Imperial Pigeon is an arboreal creature, foraging for plant material high in the tree canopy. It exhibits a swift and direct flight, with the characteristic regular beats and occasional sharp flicks of the wings typical of pigeons. While not particularly sociable, it may gather in small flocks. Nesting involves the construction of a simple stick nest in a tree, where it lays a single white egg.

Song & Calls

The call of the Green Imperial Pigeon is deep and resonant, serving as a common indicator of its presence within its arboreal habitat.

Similar Species

While there are several subspecies of the Green Imperial Pigeon, they generally maintain the same overall appearance, with variations in size and coloration. The Celebes form, known as the chestnut-naped imperial pigeon (Ducula aenea paulina), is notably distinctive.

Diet and Feeding

This species primarily feeds on plant material, which it forages for in the tree canopy.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Green Imperial Pigeon as Near Threatened, indicating that it faces threats that could lead to its vulnerability in the near future. Conservation efforts are important to ensure the stability of its populations.