The Polynesian ground dove or Society Islands ground dove or Tutururu is a critically endangered species of bird in the family Columbidae. Originally endemic to the Society Islands and Tuamotus in French Polynesia, it has now been extirpated from most of its former range by habitat loss and predation by introduced species such as cats and rats, and the species is now endemic only in the Acteon islands. The total population is estimated to be around 100-120 birds.
Region
South Pacific
Typical Environment
Now restricted to small coral atolls in the Acteon group, where it occupies native coastal scrub, low thickets, and forest edges on sandy or coral rubble substrates. It favors predator-free islets with intact understorey and patches of Pandanus, Scaevola, and other native shrubs. Birds forage on open sandy flats and along the edges of vegetation, retreating quickly into cover when disturbed. Historically it occurred more widely in the Society Islands and Tuamotus, but has been extirpated from most islands by invasive predators.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 20 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Tutururu, this shy, terrestrial dove survives only on a few predator-free atolls of the Acteon Islands in French Polynesia. Its collapse was driven by habitat loss and introduced predators, especially rats and cats. Conservation actions focus on invasive-species control and safeguarding tiny remnant populations. Males show distinctive rufous wings that inspire the scientific name meaning 'red-winged'.
Illustration of a specimen from Moorea by William Ellis, 1770s
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct dashes between cover
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining small home ranges on predator-free islets. Likely monogamous, with pairs nesting low in dense vegetation or on the ground in simple platforms. Clutch size is small, and adults are highly wary, retreating into cover at the slightest disturbance.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, low series of cooing notes, often delivered from within cover and easy to overlook. Calls include quiet hoots and gentle coos used for contact between mates.
