The Enggano imperial pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the Enggano Island. They are hunted by locals for food. Their habitat includes forest, shrubland, and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Enggano Island, using lowland evergreen forest, secondary forest, coastal scrub, and edges of degraded woodland. It forages mainly in the canopy, following the fruiting cycles of figs and other native trees. Birds sometimes descend to mid-story or edges where fruiting shrubs are abundant. Proximity to villages may attract birds when fruiting trees persist in gardens and fallows.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Enggano imperial pigeon is a large fruit-eating pigeon restricted to Enggano Island off southwest Sumatra. By swallowing fruits whole and dispersing seeds across the island, it plays a key role in regenerating native forests. It tolerates secondary growth and degraded habitats but remains vulnerable to hunting and habitat loss.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, purposeful flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, occasionally in small loose groups at fruiting trees. Builds a simple stick platform nest high in trees, where it typically lays a single egg. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice consists of low, booming coos delivered in short sequences from high perches. Calls carry through the forest canopy and are most frequent at dawn and late afternoon.
