The Malabar imperial pigeon or Nilgiri imperial pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the Western Ghats of India.
Region
Western Ghats
Typical Environment
Found in moist evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, shola–grassland mosaics, and well-wooded valleys of the Western Ghats. It favors mature canopy with abundant fruiting trees, especially figs and laurels. Birds typically remain in the upper canopy, occasionally visiting forest edges and clearings with fruiting trees. In some areas it undertakes short altitudinal shifts tracking seasonal fruit availability.
Altitude Range
300–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This large canopy-dwelling pigeon plays a key role in seed dispersal of native forest trees, especially figs, across the Western Ghats. It is often detected by its deep, resonant coos rather than by sight, as it forages high in the canopy. The species may make local upslope or downslope movements following fruiting patterns.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small parties at fruiting trees. Builds a simple platform of twigs high in trees and typically lays a single egg. Both sexes share incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The call is a deep, resonant series of booming coos, often given from concealed perches high in the canopy. Phrases carry far through forest and may include spaced whoo-oo notes repeated at intervals.
