The blue-capped fruit dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the northern Maluku Islands.
Region
Northern Maluku Islands, Wallacea
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill forests, including primary rainforest, forest edge, and well-wooded secondary growth. Frequently visits fruiting trees in the canopy and midstory, especially figs and other soft-fruited species. Uses riverine corridors and garden-forest mosaics where large fruiting trees persist. Generally shy but can be locally common at reliable fruit sources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A striking fruit-dove of the northern Maluku Islands, the male’s neat blue crown makes it easy to pick out among green foliage. It plays an important role as a seed disperser for many native trees, especially figs. Often detected by its mellow, repeated coos before it is seen, it can persist in secondary forest where fruiting trees remain.
Temperament
shy and canopy-dwelling
Flight Pattern
swift, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs, but may gather in small loose groups at heavily fruiting trees. Builds a simple twig platform nest hidden in foliage. Usually lays a single egg; both parents share incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, mellow coos delivered in steady, spaced sequences, often from concealed perches high in the canopy. Calls carry well in forest, aiding detection despite cryptic plumage.
Plumage
Compact, predominantly green dove with a clean blue cap in males, contrasting with a warm orange to yellow lower-breast band and paler belly. Upperparts are glossy green; underparts show a neat transition from grayish or whitish throat to colored breast band and yellowish belly. Females are greener overall with a duller or reduced blue cap and weaker breast coloration.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small fruits and berries, especially figs (Ficus), drupes, and other soft fruits. Swallows fruit whole and later disperses seeds away from the parent trees. Will exploit seasonal fruit peaks and may visit cultivated fruiting trees near forest edges.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the canopy and midstory at fruiting trees, occasionally dropping to lower levels when food is abundant. Uses forest edges, clearings, and secondary growth where fruit trees are present.
