The grey-headed fruit dove or gray-headed fruit dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the northern Moluccas.
Region
Northern Moluccas
Typical Environment
Occurs in tropical lowland and foothill forests, including primary and mature secondary growth. It frequents forest edges, riverine corridors, and fruiting trees in semi-open habitats. The species stays mostly in the mid- to upper canopy but may descend to lower levels when feeding. It can persist in selectively logged forests provided fruit resources remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A canopy-dwelling fruit-dove of the northern Moluccas, it plays an important role in rainforest seed dispersal. It is often shy and inconspicuous despite bright underpart tones, moving quietly between fruiting trees. Habitat loss is a localized threat, but it remains fairly widespread where suitable forest persists.
Temperament
shy and canopy-dwelling
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small loose groups at fruiting trees. Likely forms monogamous pairs during breeding, building a flimsy platform nest of twigs. Clutch size is typically a single egg, as in many fruit-doves, with both parents sharing incubation and chick care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, low-pitched coos and hoots delivered from concealed perches in the canopy. Calls are often repeated in a steady rhythm and can carry surprisingly far in still forest conditions.
Plumage
Overall green upperparts with a contrasting grey head and neck, yellowish underparts and a rufous to maroon patch on the lower belly; vent and undertail often pale. Wings are green with subtle darker edging; tail green with paler tips. Plumage is smooth and compact, typical of fruit-doves.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small fruits, especially figs (Ficus), drupes, and other soft, lipid-rich berries. It plucks fruits directly from twigs and swallows them whole, later dispersing seeds through defecation. Diet composition varies with seasonal fruiting, and individuals may track productive trees across their home range.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the mid- to upper canopy, where fruiting trees are abundant. Also visits forest edges and semi-open secondary growth if fruit resources are available.
