The brown cuckoo-dove is a dove in the genus Macropygia found in Australia from Weipa and Aurukun in the north to Bega in the south, and most inland at Atherton and Toowoomba. It is sometimes called the "brown pigeon" or "pheasant pigeon", but both terms are best avoided, as they can lead to confusion with the brown doves and the true pheasant pigeon. It was one of three new species defined when the slender-billed cuckoo-dove was split in 2016.
Region
Eastern Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs from far north Queensland south along the coastal and subcoastal ranges to southern New South Wales, with inland reach to upland areas like the Atherton Tablelands and the Great Dividing Range. It inhabits rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and dense regrowth, and readily uses edges, gullies, and riparian thickets. The species frequently occupies secondary growth and weed-dominated scrub where fruiting shrubs are abundant. It also ventures into parks and gardens near bushland and along roadsides with dense hedges.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Despite its name, the brown cuckoo-dove is not a brood parasite; the 'cuckoo' refers to elements of its call and long-tailed shape. It thrives in both intact rainforest and disturbed habitats, often benefitting from fruiting weeds like lantana and camphor laurel. Its exceptionally long, graduated tail and warm rufous-brown plumage make it distinctive in flight and at rest.
Temperament
shy and wary, often quiet
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats and long glides; wings can produce a soft whirr
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, but small loose groups may gather at heavily fruiting trees. Builds a flimsy stick platform nest in dense foliage or vines, typically several meters above ground. Clutch is usually a single white egg; both parents incubate and feed the chick with crop milk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of deep, resonant cooing notes delivered in measured sequences, often carrying far through forested valleys. Calls can include accelerating or descending phrases, with a mellow, hollow quality.
