The Buru mountain pigeon, formerly also long-tailed mountain pigeon is a species of bird in the pigeon family Columbidae. It is endemic to Indonesia and inhabits montane forest and disturbed lowland forest on Buru. It was formerly considered to be conspecific with the Seram mountain pigeon. It is a medium-sized pigeon 33–38.5 cm (13.0–15.2 in) long, and has a blue-grey crown and neck, darker slate-grey upperparts, and a white to pale buff-pink throat and breast that becomes buff-pink towards the belly. The species is slightly sexually dimorphic, with females being smaller and having more dark red on the breast.
Region
Maluku Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Buru, where it occupies primary and secondary montane forest and sometimes disturbed lowland forest and forest edges. It frequents the canopy and subcanopy, moving between fruiting trees and occasionally venturing over ridgelines or across clearings. The species can descend to lower elevations to exploit seasonal fruit crops. It is most often encountered in small groups or pairs, sometimes in loose flocks above the canopy.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive island pigeon is confined to Buru in Indonesia and was once lumped with the Seram mountain pigeon before being recognized as a distinct species. It often travels above the canopy between fruiting trees and may undertake local upslope or downslope movements following food. Like many fruit doves and pigeons, it is an important seed disperser for forest trees. Its preference for montane forest but tolerance of some disturbed lowlands helps it persist where habitat is patchy.
Illustration by John Gerrard Keulemans
Temperament
wary and often inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with rapid wingbeats, occasionally gliding above the canopy
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, sometimes forming loose flocks at fruiting trees. Likely nests in trees, building a simple platform nest like other mountain pigeons. Pairs are presumed monogamous, with both sexes involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are low, resonant coos, often delivered as a short series of deep hoots that carry through the forest. Calls are typically given from concealed perches in the canopy and can be heard at dawn and dusk.
