Black cuckoo-dove

The black cuckoo-dove or black dove, also known as the slaty cuckoo dove, is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands, being found on Timor, Wetar, Rote, and Atauro. It inhabits primary and secondary monsoon forest, eucalyptus forest, and woodlands. It is 38.5 cm (15.2 in) long on average and is mainly dark bluish-gray, lighter on the head and underparts and darker on the wings and tail. It has yellow orbital skin.

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Distribution

Region

Lesser Sunda Islands

Typical Environment

Occurs in primary and secondary monsoon forest, eucalyptus forest, and wooded mosaics, often near forest edges and along ridges. It forages in fruiting trees and shrubs from the understory to the canopy. The species tolerates some disturbance and uses secondary growth, but is most frequent in reasonably intact forest. It may also appear in wooded valleys, gallery forest, and mixed agroforestry with tall trees.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size38–39 cm

Wing Span50–60 cm

Male Weight0.27 kg

Female Weight0.26 kg

Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This long-tailed dove is shy and often overlooked as it moves quietly through canopy and midstory, betraying its presence with a low, booming series of coos. Its striking yellow orbital skin contrasts with its slaty to dark bluish-gray plumage. It is confined to a handful of Lesser Sunda Islands, where it favors monsoon and eucalyptus forests. Habitat loss and local hunting pressure are ongoing concerns for this insular species.

Gallery

On Wetar

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and unobtrusive

Flight Pattern

swift, direct flight with strong wingbeats; long-tailed glide when crossing gaps

Social Behavior

Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally gathering in small loose groups at fruiting trees. Likely monogamous, building a simple platform nest of twigs in dense foliage or on a horizontal branch. Nests are typically placed a few meters above ground in quiet sections of forest.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A low, resonant series of booming coos delivered at measured intervals, often carrying through forest at dawn. Calls can be spaced and subdued, aiding communication while remaining inconspicuous.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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