The crimson-crowned fruit dove, also the Tongan fruit dove or purple-capped fruit dove, is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in American Samoa, Fiji, Marshall Islands, Niue, Samoa, Tonga, and Wallis and Futuna Islands. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical mangrove forest.
Region
Western and Central Pacific islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on oceanic islands including American Samoa, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Niue, Wallis and Futuna, and the Marshall Islands. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, coastal and riverine forest, and mangroves. The species also uses secondary growth, forest edges, plantations, and village groves where fruiting trees are available. It remains primarily arboreal, moving between fruiting trees in the mid to upper canopy.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A canopy-dwelling fruit dove, it is a key seed disperser for many Pacific island trees and figs. The vivid crimson crown makes it easy to distinguish from other green fruit doves. It is often heard before it is seen, giving soft, repeated hoots from dense foliage. Local declines can occur where lowland forests are cleared or predators are introduced.
P. p. fasciatus, Samoa
Temperament
shy and arboreal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats in direct, purposeful flights between fruiting trees
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, sometimes small groups at abundant fruit. Builds a flimsy twig platform nest hidden in foliage. Typically lays a single egg with both parents sharing incubation and chick rearing. Territorial displays include bowing and soft cooing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of soft, resonant hoots or coos, often rendered as low wo-wo-wo notes spaced at even intervals. Calls carry through forest canopy but are subdued compared to larger pigeons.
