The grey-green fruit dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the Society Islands in French Polynesia. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
South Pacific (Society Islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs on several islands of the Society Islands, inhabiting subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests. It often uses forest edges, river valleys, and secondary growth where fruiting trees are abundant. The species will also forage in coastal groves and traditional agroforestry plots with native and introduced fruit trees. It primarily remains in the canopy but descends to mid-levels to feed.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A key seed-disperser in the Society Islands, the grey-green fruit dove helps regenerate native forests by passing viable seeds. It is typically shy and keeps to the canopy but will visit fruiting trees in gardens. While currently not at risk, it can be vulnerable to habitat loss and introduced predators. Its soft, low coos often reveal its presence before it is seen.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally small loose groups at fruiting trees. Builds a small, flimsy platform nest of twigs placed in dense foliage. Typically lays a single white egg, with both parents sharing incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, low coos and hoots that carry through forest understory. Notes are mellow and repetitive, often delivered from a concealed perch high in the canopy.
Plumage
Soft grey head and breast blending into bright green upperparts and wings, with paler underparts and yellowish undertail coverts. Feathers appear smooth and satiny, typical of fruit-doves. Tail shows a slightly paler terminal band.
Diet
Primarily consumes small to medium fruits and berries, including figs and other native drupes. Will take introduced fruits where available, aiding in flexible foraging across modified habitats. Swallows fruits whole and disperses seeds via gut passage. Occasionally supplements diet with flower buds or soft plant material.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy of moist forests and along forest edges. Regularly visits fruiting trees in secondary growth and traditional gardens, especially during peak fruiting.
