The Philippine cuckoo-dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in the Philippines and Taiwan and is rated as a species of least concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Endangered Species.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout much of the Philippine archipelago and on offshore Taiwanese islands (notably Lanyu/Orchid Island and Green Island). It inhabits primary and secondary evergreen forests, forest edges, and overgrown clearings. The species also uses wooded ravines, riparian corridors, and occasionally plantations with fruiting trees. It typically keeps to dense cover but will visit fruiting trees in more open areas.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A long-tailed dove of forests and forest edges, the Philippine cuckoo-dove is often heard before it is seen, giving mellow, rhythmic coos from the canopy. It was formerly treated within the slender-billed cuckoo-dove complex but is now recognized as a separate species. The species helps disperse seeds by feeding on small fruits, contributing to forest regeneration. It is resident in the Philippines and offshore islets of Taiwan and currently assessed as Least Concern.
Temperament
solitary and shy
Flight Pattern
strong flier with swift, direct flight and rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, occasionally in small loose groups at fruiting trees. Nests are simple twig platforms placed in dense vegetation or small trees. Typical of doves, the clutch is usually a single egg, with both parents sharing incubation and chick care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a mellow series of rising and falling coos, often delivered from a concealed perch in the mid to upper canopy. Calls carry well through forest and are a primary means of detection.
