The red-eared fruit dove is a species of bird in the pigeon family. It is endemic to the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia. This species was formerly placed in the genus Ptilinopus.
Region
Sulawesi (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
Endemic to the montane forests of Sulawesi, where it inhabits primary and mature secondary forest. It keeps to the mid- to upper canopy, often along ridges and in mossy cloud forest. The species may visit forest edges and fruiting trees near clearings but remains largely forest-dependent. It is typically local but can be fairly common where large fruiting figs are available. Occasional movements downslope may occur when food is scarce at higher elevations.
Altitude Range
700–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A canopy-dwelling fruit dove of Sulawesi’s mountains, it plays an important role in seed dispersal, especially for figs. Males show a distinctive scarlet patch behind the ear coverts, which gives the species its name. It is shy and often detected more by its soft, booming coos than by sight. Some authorities have treated it within or near the genus Ramphiculus, reflecting ongoing taxonomic study of fruit doves.
Temperament
shy and inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick dashes between canopy trees
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, but small groups may gather at fruiting trees. Builds a simple twig platform nest, typically well-hidden in the mid-canopy. Clutch is usually a single egg, with both parents sharing incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of low, resonant coos that can carry through misty forest, often delivered from concealed perches. Notes are soft and evenly spaced, sometimes rising slightly before dropping off.
Plumage
Mostly rich green with a contrasting grayish head in males; females are more uniformly green. Plumage is velvety on the upperparts with cleaner, brighter greens on the wings. The underparts can show a slightly paler belly and yellowish vent. Flight feathers are darker with fine pale edging.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small fruits and berries, especially figs (Ficus), drupes, and other canopy fruits. It swallows fruits whole and later regurgitates seeds, aiding forest regeneration. Diet composition shifts with seasonal fruit availability, and birds may track fruiting trees across ridges. Occasionally takes tender buds or flowers when fruit is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of primary and mature secondary montane forest. Frequently visits large fruiting figs and other fruiting trees along forest edges and gaps.
