The pink pigeon is a species of pigeon in the family Columbidae endemic to Mauritius. The pink pigeon nearly became extinct in the 1970s and the 1990s and is still very rare. It is the only Mascarene pigeon that has not become extinct. It was on the brink of extinction in 1991 when only 10 individuals remained, but its numbers have increased due to the efforts of the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust since 1977. While the population remains at below 500 birds as of 2011, the IUCN downlisted the species from Critically endangered to Endangered on the IUCN Red List in 2000, and then downlisted it again to Vulnerable in 2018.
Region
Mauritius (Mascarene Islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs in remnant native evergreen forests, coastal woodlands, and restored habitats on Mauritius, with managed subpopulations on sites such as Black River Gorges National Park and Île aux Aigrettes. Prefers areas with diverse fruiting trees and dense understory for cover and nesting. Often uses artificial nest boxes where natural cavities are scarce. Forages both in the canopy and on the ground for fallen fruit. Distribution is patchy and tightly tied to predator control and habitat quality.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The pink pigeon is endemic to Mauritius and was rescued from the brink of extinction when only about 10 birds remained in 1991. Intensive conservation—predator control, habitat restoration, supplemental feeding, and nest-box programs—has rebuilt the population. It is the only Mascarene pigeon not to have gone extinct. Ongoing management remains essential due to small population size, inbreeding risk, and introduced predators.
On Île aux Aigrettes
Close-up of head
Chick
Temperament
social and relatively tame
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with occasional glides
Social Behavior
Typically forms small groups at feeding sites but breeds in territorial monogamous pairs. Courtship includes bowing and soft cooing displays. Nests in trees or provided nest boxes, usually laying a single egg (occasionally two) with multiple attempts possible per year. Adults share incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, low coos delivered in measured phrases, often during courtship or at dawn. Calls include gentle contact notes and a deeper hooo-oo used in pair bonding. Vocalizations are unobtrusive and carry short distances in forest.
