The Mariana fruit dove, totot in the Northern Marianas Islands or Paluman totut on Guam, also known as mwee'mwe in the Carolinian language, is a small, up to 24 cm (9.4 in) long, green fruit dove native and endemic to the Northern Marianas Islands in the Pacific and Guam. It has a red forehead; greyish head, back and breast; and yellow belly patch and undertail coverts. Sightings of the Mariana Fruit Dove on Guam are rare with up to two sightings per year.
Region
Mariana Archipelago, Micronesia
Typical Environment
Found primarily in native limestone and secondary evergreen forests, including coastal and lowland woodlands with abundant fruiting trees. It frequents forest edges, ravines, and gardens where figs and other fruiting species are available. Birds typically forage in the mid- to upper canopy and roost in dense foliage. The species persists on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, and is now largely absent from Guam’s main island, where only rare sightings occur.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This vibrant fruit dove is the official bird of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and plays a key role as a seed disperser for native forest trees. It was extirpated from Guam after the introduction of the brown tree snake, though occasional sightings still occur. Conservation efforts include habitat protection, predator control, and ex-situ breeding in zoos to support future reintroductions.
Temperament
shy and cryptic
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats among trees; strong but brief flights between canopies
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Pairs are monogamous and build a simple twig platform nest in dense foliage. They typically lay a single egg, with both parents sharing incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, resonant cooing series with mellow, repeated notes that carry through the forest canopy. Calls are typically low-pitched and rhythmic, often delivered from concealed perches.
