The many-colored fruit dove, also known as manuma in the Samoan language, is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It occurs on islands in the south-west Pacific Ocean where it is found in Fiji, the Samoan Islands, and Tonga. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. Today, the birds are most often found in Fiji and Tonga. It usually feeds high in the canopy on fruit and berries, especially banyan fig. The nest is a small platform of twigs where one white egg is laid.
Region
Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
Occurs on Fiji, the Samoan Islands, and Tonga, now most frequently encountered in Fiji and Tonga. It favors subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, coastal forest, and wooded valleys. The species also uses secondary growth and village gardens where large fruiting trees such as banyan figs are present. It spends most of its time in the upper canopy, moving between fruiting trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called manuma in Samoan, this fruit dove is an important seed disperser for native figs and other forest trees. It usually stays high in the canopy and can be surprisingly hard to spot despite the male’s vivid colors. Storms and habitat loss have affected some island populations, and it typically lays just one egg per clutch.
Female, Vuna, Taveuni, Fiji Isles
Male, Matei, Taveuni, Fiji Isles
Temperament
shy and canopy-dwelling
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups around fruiting trees. Nests are flimsy twig platforms placed well above ground. The typical clutch is a single white egg, and both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, low cooing notes delivered in short series that can be ventriloquial from the canopy. Calls are often given at dawn and during quiet periods while foraging.
