The pin-tailed green pigeon or pin-tailed pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae native to Southeast Asia.
Region
Eastern Himalayas and Indochina
Typical Environment
Found from the foothills of Northeast India through Myanmar into Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and adjacent southern China. It favors evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, forest edges, secondary growth, and bamboo groves. The species is most often seen in the mid to upper canopy, especially around fruiting fig and laurel trees. It may also visit orchards and wooded gardens near forest. Local movements follow fruit availability.
Altitude Range
100–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This subtly colored green pigeon is a canopy-dwelling frugivore that plays an important role in seed dispersal across Southeast Asian forests. Its name comes from the elongated, pointed central tail feathers that give the tail a pin-like look. Males show richer shoulder coloration than females, which are more uniformly green. It often gathers quietly at fruiting figs, where it can be overlooked despite being fairly common.
Pin-tailed green pigeon
Artist's illustration
Temperament
social and shy
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small flocks, especially at fruiting trees. Monogamous pairs build a flimsy twig platform nest placed in dense foliage. Typical clutch size is two white eggs, with both parents sharing incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, mellow coos and low hoots delivered from within the canopy. Calls are unobtrusive and can be hard to localize, aiding its tendency to remain undetected. Vocalizations often accompany feeding or early morning activity.
