The Amboyna cuckoo-dove is a dove in the genus Macropygia found in the Moluccas and New Guinea. It was one of three new species defined when the slender-billed cuckoo-dove was split up in 2016 and retains the Latin binomial of the former species.[1]
Region
Moluccas and New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs across the Maluku (Moluccas) archipelago and into New Guinea, including adjacent islands. It inhabits primary and secondary tropical rainforest, forest edges, and overgrown clearings. The species also frequents gardens and agroforests with fruiting trees near forest. It is largely sedentary within home ranges but may move locally in search of fruiting trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Amboyna cuckoo-dove is a long-tailed forest dove that was split from the former slender-billed cuckoo-dove complex in 2016, retaining the name Macropygia amboinensis. It is often heard before it is seen, delivering deep, rhythmic coos from mid-story perches. This species adapts well to secondary growth and forest edges where fruiting trees are abundant.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
strong direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, occasionally in small loose groups at fruiting trees. Nests are flimsy twig platforms placed in low to mid-story vegetation. Clutch typically consists of a single white egg, with both parents participating in incubation and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of deep, resonant coos delivered at measured intervals, often rising and falling in a rhythmic pattern. Calls carry far through forest and are given from concealed perches.