The Andaman wood pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India. Classified as 'near threatened' by the IUCN, its population is estimated as between 2,500 and 10,000 mature individuals.
Region
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits primary evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, using tall canopy strata to feed and roost. It also occurs in mature secondary forest and along forest edges where fruiting trees are abundant. The species is most frequently encountered at fruiting figs and other native trees and may descend to lower levels when food is scarce. Human disturbance reduces local occurrence, so it is most regular in less-accessible, intact forest blocks.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Andaman wood pigeon is a shy forest pigeon confined to India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It favors tall, mature evergreen forests and often forages high in the canopy at fruiting trees. The IUCN currently assesses it as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and hunting pressure. Its discreet habits and canopy lifestyle make it more often heard than seen.
Temperament
solitary and wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs; small loose groups may form at fruiting trees. Nests high in trees, building a simple twig platform typical of pigeons. Likely lays a single egg and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A low, resonant series of cooing notes delivered from within dense canopy. Calls are repeated in measured sequences and carry surprisingly far in still forest conditions.
