The ashy wood pigeon is a member of the bird family Columbidae, found in temperate forests of southeastern Asia.
Region
Eastern Himalayas and East Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from northeastern India and northern Myanmar through southwest and south-central China to Taiwan, with records in northern Indochina. It inhabits mature evergreen and mixed broadleaf forests, often in hilly or montane terrain. Birds typically keep to tall, undisturbed canopy and forest edges near fruiting trees. It may visit secondary growth and forest margins when food is abundant.
Altitude Range
200–2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A shy forest pigeon, the ashy wood pigeon spends most of its time high in the canopy and is often detected by its deep, resonant cooing rather than seen. It plays an important role as a seed disperser for many forest trees, especially figs and laurels. Individuals may make local, altitudinal movements following fruiting trees.
Ashy wood Pigeon,Khonoma,Nagaland
At Phulchoki, Nepal.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally forming small groups at abundant fruit sources. Builds a simple stick platform nest high in trees. Typical clutch is a single white egg, and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A low, resonant series of booming coos, often delivered from concealed perches in the canopy. Calls carry far through forest and are most frequent at dawn and late afternoon.
