The Madagascar green pigeon or Madagascan green pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to Madagascar. The taxon griveaudi, by most authorities considered a subspecies of the Madagascan green pigeon, is sometimes considered a separate species, the Comoros green pigeon. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forest and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in Madagascar’s lowland and foothill forests, including both moist evergreen forests of the east and drier deciduous forests of the west and northwest. It frequents forest edges, riverine corridors, wooded savannas, and fruiting trees in secondary growth and plantations. Often found in the canopy but will descend to mid-levels where fruit is abundant. Tolerates some habitat disturbance provided fruiting trees remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Madagascar green pigeon is an arboreal fruit specialist that spends much of its time high in the canopy, often clambering among branches in a parrot-like manner. It is an important seed disperser for many native trees, especially figs. Some authorities have split the Comoros population as the Comoros green pigeon. Like other pigeons, it can drink by suction, allowing rapid water intake.
Treron australis in Madagascar
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight between fruiting trees
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small flocks, larger gatherings forming at heavily fruiting trees. Monogamous pairs build a flimsy platform nest of twigs placed well above ground in dense foliage. Both sexes share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Outside breeding, it is loosely gregarious and tolerant of other frugivores.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, muffled cooing phrases and low hoots, often delivered from concealed perches in the canopy. Calls can include a rising, whistled coo used in contact and courtship. Vocalizations carry poorly through dense foliage, contributing to its often inconspicuous presence.
