The plain pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in the four Greater Antilles: Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. Its natural habitats are forest, woodland, coastal desert, mangrove and swampy areas. It is threatened by habitat loss and illegal hunting.
Region
Greater Antilles
Typical Environment
Occurs on Cuba, Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti), Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. It uses mature and secondary forests, wooded valleys, and forest edges, and will also forage in plantations such as coffee and cacao. The species frequents mangroves, coastal scrub, and swampy areas, often staying near water. It typically nests in tall trees and may venture into agricultural mosaics when fruiting trees are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The plain pigeon is a large, rather uniform-colored Caribbean pigeon often confused with the scaly-naped pigeon but lacking the latter’s scaly neck pattern. It persists across the Greater Antilles but has declined locally from habitat loss and illegal hunting. Island subspecies show subtle differences, and targeted conservation in Puerto Rico has aided recent recoveries in some areas.
Temperament
wary and shy
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in small groups, forming looser flocks where food is abundant. Pairs are monogamous and nest in trees, constructing simple stick platforms. Clutches are small, typically one or two eggs, and parents share incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A low, resonant series of deep coos, often given from a concealed perch. Calls carry through forested habitats and can sound slower and more hollow than other sympatric pigeons.
