The cinnamon-bellied imperial pigeon or cinnamon imperial pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the northern Moluccas. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Northern Moluccas, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical to tropical moist lowland forests of the northern Moluccas, particularly on Halmahera and adjacent islands. It favors primary evergreen forest but also uses well-developed secondary forest and forest edges where large fruiting trees are present. Birds spend most of their time in the upper canopy, moving between fruiting trees over ridges and along riverine forest. It can occasionally be seen near villages where large figs or palms are fruiting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A large canopy-dwelling imperial pigeon, it is an important seed disperser for many rainforest trees, especially figs, helping maintain forest regeneration. It is typically shy and unobtrusive, often detected by its deep, booming coos from high in the canopy. Some authorities have split the Obi population as a separate species, reflecting geographic variation within the group. Habitat loss from logging and hunting pressure can affect local numbers.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, powerful wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small groups traveling between fruiting trees. Nests high in trees on a simple platform of twigs, typically laying a single egg like most pigeons. Breeding activity often coincides with peaks in fruit availability.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives deep, resonant booming coos that carry through the forest canopy, often in a measured series. Calls can sound owl-like at a distance, with soft introductory notes followed by lower, longer hoots.
Plumage
Upperparts dark green with bronze gloss; head and upper breast pale grey contrasting with a rich cinnamon belly and vent. Tail dark with a narrow pale terminal band. Overall sleek, smooth plumage typical of imperial pigeons.
Diet
Primarily consumes fruit, especially figs (Ficus), along with drupes and palm fruits. It swallows fruits whole and later regurgitates or passes seeds, aiding dispersal. Occasionally supplements diet with young shoots or other soft plant matter when fruit is scarce. Feeds methodically from high perches, moving between fruiting crowns.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the upper canopy of primary and mature secondary rainforest, particularly at large fruiting trees. Also visits forest edges, river corridors, and sometimes village trees bearing heavy crops.
