The Chilean pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in Chile and Argentina.
Region
Southern Andes and Chilean Temperate Forests
Typical Environment
Occurs from central to southern Chile and across the Andean foothills into southwestern Argentina. It favors mature Valdivian and Magellanic temperate rainforests, Araucaria and southern beech (Nothofagus) woodlands, and forest edges. Also uses secondary growth, mixed plantations, and rural landscapes with large remnant trees. Often forages high in the canopy at fruiting trees but will descend to lower strata and edges when food is abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A large forest pigeon of southern Chile and adjacent Argentina, it is a key disperser of native tree seeds in temperate rainforests. Flocks gather at fruiting trees and can be surprisingly conspicuous despite their generally shy nature. Its deep, booming coos carry far through Nothofagus and evergreen forests.
Chilean pigeon in the Biobío Region, Chile
Temperament
shy and wary in forests, more conspicuous at fruiting trees
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forms small to large flocks outside the breeding season, especially where fruit is abundant. Nests are flimsy twig platforms placed in trees, usually concealed in dense foliage. Typically lays a single egg; both parents incubate and feed the chick with crop milk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of deep, resonant coos that carry over long distances, often delivered from a concealed perch. Calls can be spaced and rhythmic, giving a slow, booming cadence typical of large forest pigeons.
Plumage
Robust pigeon with a wine-purple to vinaceous head and breast blending into slate-gray wings and back, and paler gray belly. The neck shows a glossy greenish to bronzy sheen. Tail is dark with a subtle pale terminal band and slightly paler rump.
Diet
Primarily eats fruits and berries from native trees and shrubs, including Myrtaceae and other canopy species. Also takes seeds and occasionally soft plant matter. Acts as an important seed disperser by passing viable seeds after gut transit. Will opportunistically visit agricultural areas and gardens when suitable fruit is available.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mostly in the forest canopy and at edges where fruiting trees are abundant. Uses forest gaps, riverine corridors, and plantations with native fruiting understory.
