The Nuku Hiva imperial pigeon, also known as the Marquesan imperial pigeon or Upe, is a pigeon which is endemic to Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia. This pigeon is only found in some valleys in the western part of that island. With its small distribution, scientists believe it has probably never been common, but its very small population has marked it as an endangered species since 2008.
Region
Marquesas Islands, South Pacific
Typical Environment
Now restricted to a handful of valleys in western Nuku Hiva, where it favors mature native forest and mixed secondary growth. It uses tall canopy trees for feeding and nesting and frequently traverses ridgelines between valleys. Birds occasionally visit edge habitats and fruiting trees near human settlements but remain largely forest-dependent. Nesting sites are typically high in large trees to avoid ground predators.
Altitude Range
0–900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Marquesan imperial pigeon or Upe, this large fruit pigeon is culturally significant to local people and is now confined to Nuku Hiva. It plays an important role as a seed disperser for native forest trees. The species is threatened by hunting and invasive predators like rats and cats, as well as habitat degradation. Its deep, booming calls carry far across forested valleys.
Temperament
wary and shy
Flight Pattern
powerful flier with deep wingbeats and short glides across valleys
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, sometimes small family groups at fruiting trees. Pairs are likely monogamous, nesting high in tall trees with a simple platform nest. Clutch size is typically one egg, and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing. Displays may include high circling flights and loud wing claps.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Deep, resonant booming coos that carry long distances, often given at dawn and dusk. Calls are simple and repetitive, with a low pulsating quality.
