The ornate fruit dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in New Guinea. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in New Guinea’s tropical forests, from lowland rainforests to lower montane zones. Favors mature forest but also visits secondary growth, forest edges, and fruiting trees along rivers and in foothills. Typically occupies the mid- to upper canopy, moving quietly between fruiting trees. Its presence is often tied to seasonal availability of figs and other soft fruits.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This vividly colored fruit-dove is endemic to the island of New Guinea, where it keeps to the mid- and upper forest canopy. It plays an important ecological role as a seed disperser, especially for figs and other native fruiting trees. Often heard before it is seen, it can appear surprisingly inconspicuous despite its bright plumage when hidden among green foliage.
Temperament
quiet and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, but small groups gather at heavily fruiting trees. Nests are simple twig platforms placed in dense foliage. A single egg is typical, with both parents sharing incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft series of low, resonant coos, often delivered from concealed perches. Calls are repetitive and carry through the forest, making detection easier by ear than by sight.
Plumage
Predominantly bright green with ornate contrasting patches on the head and underparts; males are more vividly patterned while females are duller and more uniform. Plumage is smooth and closely set, aiding camouflage in leafy canopies.
Diet
Feeds primarily on soft fruits, especially figs (Ficus), as well as berries and small drupes. It plucks fruit delicately and swallows smaller fruits whole. By passing or regurgitating seeds away from the parent tree, it helps maintain forest diversity.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid- and upper canopy of primary and secondary forest, and along forest edges. Regularly visits isolated fruiting trees in foothills and riparian corridors.
