Victoria Crowned Pigeon

Brief Description

The largest living pigeon in the world, recognizable by its elegant fan-like crest of feathers and red iris. It has a heavy, robust body and spends much of its time walking on the forest floor.

Additional Information

• Region of Origin: New Guinea and surrounding islands
• Typical Sighting Period: Year-round due to tropical habitat
• Plumage Details: Deep bluish-grey feathers overall with beautiful lace-like maroon or purple crest feathers tipped in white. The wings often feature a small, pale lavender-blue patch with dark purple borders.
• Ecological Significance: Acts as an important seed disperser within the rainforest ecosystem by consuming fallen fruits and seeds, supporting the regeneration of tropical flora.
• Conservation Status: Near Threatened
• Observation Tips: In the wild, they are best spotted in lowland swamp forests or sago palm forests; they are often shy and can be heard taking off with a loud clapping sound of their wings. In captivity, they are commonly found in large walk-through aviaries where they are more approachable.