The Choiseul pigeon is an extinct species of bird in the pigeon and dove family, Columbidae. It was endemic to the island of Choiseul in the Solomon Islands, although there are unsubstantiated reports that it may once have lived on several nearby islands. The last confirmed sighting was in 1904. Other common names were Solomons crested pigeon, Solomon Islands crowned-pigeon and Kuvojo.
Region
Solomon Islands
Typical Environment
Historically restricted to lowland and hill rainforests of Choiseul, frequenting dense understory and the shaded forest floor. It likely foraged along streams and in leaf-littered gullies where fallen fruits accumulate. The species appears to have been largely terrestrial, retreating into thick vegetation when disturbed. No confirmed populations persisted on nearby islands despite occasional unsubstantiated reports.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Choiseul pigeon was a distinctive ground-dwelling pigeon with a prominent forward-curving crest, known only from Choiseul Island in the Solomon Islands. Discovered for science in the early 1900s, it was last confirmed in 1904 and is now considered extinct. Likely drivers of its extinction include hunting and predation by introduced dogs and cats, compounded by its tame, terrestrial habits.
The related thick-billed ground pigeon (Trugon terrestris)
Illustration showing alternate crest arrangement
Lowland forest in the Solomon Islands, 2012
Choiseul pigeon on the flag of the Choiseul Province
Temperament
shy and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, reluctant flier
Social Behavior
Likely occurred singly or in pairs, typical of many ground pigeons. It probably nested close to the ground or on low branches, with the small clutch size common to Columbidae. Reports suggest it was tame and approachable, a trait that increased vulnerability to hunters and predators.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Presumed to have given low, resonant cooing calls typical of ground pigeons. Vocalizations were likely simple, spaced coos used for contact and mate communication.
