The jambu fruit dove is a smallish colourful fruit dove. It is a resident breeding species in southern Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei and the Indonesian islands of Kalimantan, Sumatra and Java. This species was formerly placed in the genus Ptilinopus.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Found from southern Thailand through Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore to Brunei and the Indonesian islands of Sumatra, Borneo (Kalimantan and Brunei), and Java. It favors lowland evergreen and peat-swamp forests, riverine forest, mangroves, and well-wooded secondary growth. Birds often track fruiting trees, especially figs, and can appear in orchards or gardens near forest edges. Local occurrence is patchy where lowland forest has been cleared. Typically forages from mid-story to canopy but may descend to lower levels when feeding.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The jambu fruit dove is a shy forest pigeon that often remains hidden in dense foliage, betraying its presence only when feeding at fruiting trees. Males are striking with a crimson facial mask and pink breast, while females are largely green and well camouflaged. It plays an important role in seed dispersal for many rainforest plants. Habitat loss in lowland forests has led to regional declines.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, occasionally in small groups at fruiting trees. Builds a small, flimsy platform nest of twigs placed on a horizontal branch. Typically lays a single egg, with both parents sharing incubation and chick rearing. Courtship includes bowing, soft coos, and short display flights.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice consists of soft, low-pitched coos delivered in spaced intervals, often hard to locate in dense foliage. Males give simple advertising calls from shaded perches during early morning and late afternoon.
