The claret-breasted fruit dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in the Moluccas, New Guinea and the Solomon Islands archipelago. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Wallacea and Melanesia (Moluccas, New Guinea, Solomon Islands)
Typical Environment
Occupies subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, including primary rainforest and well-wooded secondary growth. Frequently forages in the upper canopy but also visits forest edges and riverine corridors when fruit is abundant. It adapts to disturbed habitats if large fruiting trees remain. Often aggregates at seasonal fruiting events and may move locally in response to food availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The claret-breasted fruit dove is a canopy-dwelling pigeon famed for the male’s rich claret-colored chest patch. Females are mostly green, providing excellent camouflage among foliage. It plays an important role in seed dispersal for many rainforest plants. Despite being inconspicuous, it is often detected by its soft, repetitive coos near fruiting trees.
Illustration by Joseph Smit
Temperament
shy and canopy-oriented
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct bursts between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, but small groups form at fruiting trees. Builds a simple twig platform nest in the mid to upper canopy. Typically lays a single egg, with both parents sharing incubation and chick-feeding duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, mellow coos and low hoots delivered from concealed perches. Calls are repetitive and carry through the forest but are easily overlooked amid insect noise.
Plumage
Glossy green upperparts with smooth, compact plumage; males show a distinct claret to maroon breast patch blending into yellowish underparts; females largely green below.
Diet
Primarily eats small fruits and berries, especially figs and other canopy fruits. Swallows fruits whole and later disperses seeds across the forest. May take tender buds or occasional soft plant matter when fruit is scarce. Often follows fruiting phenology, shifting local areas as trees ripen.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy at fruiting trees, occasionally descending to mid-story. Uses forest edges, river margins, and secondary growth when fruit is abundant.
