Black wood pigeon

The black wood pigeon or Japanese wood pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in East Asia along shorelines of the Pacific's Korea Strait, Philippine Sea and East China Sea. It is believed to be the largest representative of the genus, Columba, and has a weight of around 550 grams (1.2 lb) and an overall length of 43 cm (17 in). Its natural habitats are temperate forests and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. The species is in decline owing to habitat loss, habitat degradation, deforestation and hunting. This wood pigeon is endemic to the laurel forest habitat.

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Distribution

Region

East Asia (Northwest Pacific islands)

Typical Environment

Primarily inhabits coastal and insular evergreen broadleaf (laurel) forests in southern Japan and nearby island chains. It uses mature forest with abundant fruiting trees, including ravines and sheltered slopes near the ocean. Birds forage in the canopy and along forest edges, occasionally descending to lower strata when fruit is plentiful. It avoids heavily disturbed areas and relies on large, continuous tracts of forest.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1200 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size40–45 cm

Wing Span65–75 cm

Male Weight0.55 kg

Female Weight0.5 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The black wood pigeon (also called the Japanese wood pigeon) is the largest member of the genus Columba. It favors mature evergreen laurel forests on oceanic islands and is notably shy and wary. As a key seed disperser of fruiting trees, it plays an important ecological role. Ongoing habitat loss and past hunting pressure have caused declines, making protection of intact coastal forests crucial.

Gallery

Illustration by Philipp Franz von Siebold

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and wary

Flight Pattern

strong, direct flight with powerful wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually solitary or in pairs, but small groups may gather at heavily fruiting trees. Forms monogamous pairs that nest high in trees on a simple platform of twigs. Clutches are typically a single egg, with both parents sharing incubation and chick-rearing duties.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of deep, resonant coos delivered slowly and repetitively, carrying through dense forest. Calls can sound booming at close range, with soft introductory notes followed by fuller, pulsed coos.

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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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