Order Columbiformes Genus Ducula Higher classification Imperial pigeon | Phylum Chordata Scientific name Ducula aenea Rank Species | |
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Similar Imperial pigeon, Bird, Pigeons and doves, Pied imperial pigeon, Mountain imperial pigeon | ||
Sulawesi green imperial pigeon preening
The green imperial pigeon (Ducula aenea) is a large forest pigeon.
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Green imperial pigeon
Description
The green imperial pigeon is a large, plump pigeon, 45 cm in length. Its back, wings and tail are metallic green. The head and underparts are white, apart from maroon undertail coverts. Sexes are similar. The bird's call is deep and resonant, and is often the first indication of the presence of this treetop species.
Distribution and habitat
This is a forest species which is a widespread resident breeding bird in tropical southern Asia from India east to Indonesia. It has several subspecies, including the distinctive Celebes form, chestnut-naped imperial pigeon (Ducula aenea paulina).
Behaviour
This is an arboreal dove, feeding on plant material in the tree canopy. Its flight is fast and direct, with the regular beats and an occasional sharp flick of the wings which are characteristic of pigeons in general. It builds a stick nest in a tree and lays a single white egg. The birds are not very gregarious, but will form small flocks.
