The Barusan cuckoo-dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found on three of the western Sumatran islands.
Region
Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on several small islands off the western coast of Sumatra, inhabiting primary and secondary lowland rainforest, forest edges, and mature mixed gardens. It often uses midstory to canopy levels but will come to the understory and ground for fallen fruits. It tolerates some habitat disturbance and can persist in logged forests and agroforests if fruiting trees remain. Typically found in small numbers, it is most detectable around fruiting figs and other native fruit trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A long-tailed island cuckoo-dove of the genus Macropygia, it is confined to offshore islands west of Sumatra. Its populations are isolated, leading to subtle differences in plumage shades among islands. It frequents fruiting trees and is more often heard by its deep, resonant coos than seen.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, occasionally in small groups at fruiting trees. Pairs are likely monogamous during the breeding season and defend small territories. The nest is a flimsy platform of twigs placed in a shrub or low tree, typically holding a single egg.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a series of deep, resonant coos that carry through forest, often a slow, rhythmic hoo…hoo…hoo sequence. Calls may accelerate slightly and are delivered from a concealed perch. Soft grunts and cooing notes are also used in close contact.
