The Henderson fruit dove, Henderson Island fruit dove or scarlet-capped fruit dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae.
Region
South-central Pacific (Pitcairn Islands)
Typical Environment
Confined to the raised coralline limestone of Henderson Island, where it inhabits native broadleaf forest and thickets. It favors areas with abundant fruiting trees and shrubs, moving through the mid- to upper canopy. The species uses both interior forest and edges, including scrubby limestone clearings. Nesting occurs in dense vegetation that offers cover from aerial predators and tropical squalls.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 33 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This fruit dove is endemic to remote Henderson Island in the Pitcairn Islands and is sometimes called the scarlet-capped fruit dove. It is one of only a handful of landbirds unique to the island and is an important seed disperser for native trees. The species persists despite the island’s remoteness and presence of introduced rats, but its single-island range makes it vulnerable to stochastic events. Henderson Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, indirectly aiding the bird’s protection.
Temperament
shy and canopy-dwelling
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats in fast, direct flights between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in small loose groups at fruiting trees. Courtship involves gentle bowing and soft coos, with both sexes participating in display. Nests are simple twig platforms placed in dense foliage; typically a single egg is laid and both parents incubate and feed the chick.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of low, mellow coos delivered at measured intervals, often from concealed perches. Calls include soft contact notes around fruiting trees and quiet, rhythmic hoots during courtship.
Plumage
Predominantly leaf-green with a contrasting scarlet cap; face and breast are greyish with paler underparts and a whitish vent. The wings and mantle are rich green with subtle yellow edging on some feathers. Tail shows a pale or yellowish terminal band and the undertail coverts are light. Overall appearance is a compact, vividly green fruit-dove with a bright crown.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small to medium-sized fruits and berries from native forest trees and shrubs. It swallows fruits whole and later passes seeds, contributing to forest regeneration. Diet may be supplemented with buds and occasional soft plant matter when fruit is scarce. Seasonal availability of fruit influences local movements within the island.
Preferred Environment
Forages primarily in the mid- to upper canopy, visiting fruiting trees and lianas. It also uses forest edges and dense thickets where fruiting shrubs are abundant.
