The Pemba green pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is a small and stocky pigeon, with an average length of 25 cm. The head, neck, breast, and underparts are greenish-grey, while the upperparts from the lower mantle to the rump are olive-green, brighter on the rump and uppertail-coverts and with a greyish wash elsewhere. There is a dark greyish-purple patch on the shoulder formed by the lesser wing-coverts. It is endemic to Pemba Island, off the northeastern coast of mainland Tanzania. It is most common in primary forest, but also occurs in secondary forest, gardens, and clove plantations. Its population is estimated to number 2,000–3,200 mature individuals, although some estimates are as low as 500.
Region
East Africa (Zanzibar Archipelago)
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Pemba Island, most commonly in primary evergreen forest such as the Ngezi Forest Reserve. It also uses secondary woodland, forest edges, village gardens, and clove and other fruit plantations when trees are fruiting. The species spends much of its time in the mid- to upper canopy, moving between fruiting trees. Connectivity between forest patches is important because it travels to track seasonal fruit availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 100 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This fruit-loving pigeon is confined to Pemba Island in the Zanzibar Archipelago, where it plays an important role dispersing native forest seeds, especially figs. It often forages quietly in the canopy and can be overlooked despite its bright green tones. Habitat loss and hunting pressure have reduced its numbers, making remaining protected forest tracts crucial to its survival.
Temperament
social and wary in canopy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, sometimes gathering in larger feeding parties at fruiting trees. Builds a simple twig platform nest in trees; likely lays two eggs and both parents share incubation and chick rearing. Generally monogamous during the breeding season and secretive around nests.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, mellow whistles and cooing phrases delivered from within the canopy. Calls carry modest distances and can be a useful cue to locate birds otherwise hidden by foliage.
Plumage
Stocky green pigeon with greenish-grey head, neck, and underparts, and olive-green upperparts that brighten on the rump and uppertail-coverts. Lesser wing-coverts form a dark greyish-purple shoulder patch; flight feathers show yellowish edging. Overall satin-green tones with a smooth, unspotted finish typical of Treron pigeons.
Diet
Primarily eats fruit, especially figs (Ficus), as well as berries from native forest trees and cultivated species like clove and mango. Often swallows small fruits whole, later dispersing seeds via droppings. May take buds and tender leaves opportunistically when fruit is scarce. Feeds methodically from perch to perch within fruiting crowns.
Preferred Environment
Mid- to upper canopy of mature forest and fruiting trees in plantations and gardens. Frequently visits forest edges and clearings where fruiting trees are accessible. Avoids open treeless areas except when commuting between patches.
