The dusky pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.
Region
Chocó biogeographic region
Typical Environment
Occurs in the humid lowland and foothill rainforests of western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. Prefers dense evergreen forest, edges, and tall secondary growth with abundant fruiting trees. It frequents riverine corridors and forest clearings where fruit availability is high. The species is largely tied to intact canopy but will also use degraded forest if large fruiting trees remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Dusky Pigeon is a forest-dwelling pigeon of the Chocó region, often overlooked due to its uniformly dark plumage. It is quieter and more skulking than similar Patagioenas pigeons, and its deep, repeated hoots carry far through humid forests. It can be confused with Plumbeous and Ruddy pigeons, but is darker overall and typically lacks strong neck iridescence.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
direct, fast wingbeats; strong flier
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally in small loose groups at fruiting trees. Nests on a simple stick platform placed in trees or dense vines. Both sexes likely share incubation and chick-rearing duties, as in many pigeons.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A low, resonant series of mournful hoots, typically 3–5 notes spaced evenly. Calls are most frequent at dawn and dusk and can carry through dense forest.
