The chestnut-bellied imperial pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the southern Solomon Islands.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Melanesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and mature secondary forests of the southern Solomon Islands, especially on larger islands with extensive canopy cover. It favors tall, fruit-rich lowland and foothill forests, but may also use forest edges and disturbed areas where large fruiting trees persist. Birds sometimes venture into village groves and plantations when native fruits are scarce. Riparian corridors and ridge-top fruiting trees can be important for foraging and movement.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This large fruit dove is restricted to the southern Solomon Islands, where it inhabits lowland and hill forests. Its strong, direct flight allows it to commute between fruiting trees and forest patches. By swallowing fruits whole and dispersing seeds, it plays an important role in maintaining forest regeneration. It is generally shy and more often heard by its deep booming calls than seen.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with powerful wingbeats; short glides between trees
Social Behavior
Usually observed singly or in pairs, but may gather in small loose groups at heavily fruiting trees. Builds a flimsy twig platform nest placed high in the canopy. Both parents participate in incubation and chick rearing. Breeding timing likely tracks peaks in fruit availability.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice is a series of deep, resonant booming coos that carry far through the forest. Calls may begin with a drawn-out note followed by several shorter hoots. Soft grunts and contact coos are given at close range around fruiting trees.
Plumage
Robust imperial pigeon with smooth grey head and breast transitioning to a rich chestnut belly and vent, and dark olive-green to bronzy upperparts. The wings are deep green with a subtle metallic sheen, and the tail is dark with a contrasting terminal band. Underparts show a clean demarcation between grey breast and chestnut belly.
Diet
Primarily consumes large fruits and figs, swallowing them whole and later regurgitating or passing seeds, thus aiding seed dispersal. Also takes drupes and berries from a variety of native canopy trees. Occasionally visits cultivated fruit trees when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly in the mid to upper canopy of intact forest and along edges with mature fruiting trees. Frequently uses ridgelines, riverine trees, and tall remnant trees in secondary growth or gardens.
