The cream-breasted fruit dove or cream-bellied fruit dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is a large and primarily greenish dove with a distinctive red wing patch and cream coloured breast which it was named after. It is endemic to the Philippines found only on the islands of Luzon, Catanduanes and Polillo Islands. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland to montane forests of up to 1,300 masl. It is threatened by habitat loss, and trapping for the pet trade. This species was formerly placed in the genus Ptilinopus.
Region
Northern Philippines
Typical Environment
Endemic to Luzon and adjacent islands including Catanduanes and Polillo. It occupies primary and mature secondary evergreen forests and frequents fruiting trees along forest edges and in well-wooded ravines. The species ranges from lowland to lower montane zones and is most often encountered in the mid- to upper canopy. It occasionally visits orchards and plantations when native fruits are scarce. Habitat loss and trapping pressure are local concerns.
Altitude Range
0–1300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the cream-bellied fruit dove, it is a canopy-dwelling frugivore with a striking crimson wing patch and a pale cream breast. It plays an important role as a seed disperser in Philippine forests. The species is shy and often detected by its soft, low coos rather than by sight. Two subspecies occur on Luzon and nearby islands, differing subtly in plumage.
Temperament
secretive and shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, fast flights between canopy trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small groups at fruiting trees. Forms loose aggregations when food is abundant. Nests are small, flimsy platforms placed on horizontal branches in the mid-canopy. Both parents are believed to share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are soft, low, mournful coos delivered from concealed perches high in the canopy. Phrases may consist of a short series of woo notes with pauses between sequences. Vocalizations carry poorly through dense foliage, aiding its cryptic habits.
