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.
Plumage
Large, mostly brownish-olive with a vinous-grey head and neck, dusky brown back and wings with a subtle purplish gloss, and a contrasting pale grey terminal band on the tail. Underparts are brownish to grey with paler belly and vent. Feathers are smooth and satin-like, giving a sleek appearance in good light.
Diet
Primarily consumes fruits and berries, especially figs (Ficus) and other canopy fruits, which it often swallows whole. It occasionally takes seeds and tender plant matter. By passing seeds intact, it is an important disperser for many forest trees.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the canopy of evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, concentrating at fruiting trees along ridges and in sheltered valleys. It may also visit forest edges and clearings when fruit is abundant.
