The red-naped fruit dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to Sumba.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Sumba, primarily in intact lowland and hill forests with abundant fruiting trees. It favors the mid- to upper canopy but will use forest edges, gaps, and older secondary growth when fruit is available. Plantations and village groves are visited occasionally if large fruiting figs are present. Its presence closely tracks seasonal fruiting, especially of native figs and laurels.
Altitude Range
200–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking fruit-dove is confined to the island of Sumba in Indonesia and plays an important role in forest regeneration by dispersing seeds. Males show a vivid crimson patch on the nape that gives the species its name. It is generally shy and canopy-dwelling, making it easy to overlook despite its colors. Habitat loss on Sumba poses the main threat to its long-term survival.
An illustration by John Gerrard Keulemans
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct dashes between fruiting trees
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, occasionally in small loose groups at heavily fruiting trees. Courtship involves soft cooing and bowing displays by the male. The nest is a simple, flimsy platform placed well above ground, typically holding a single egg. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, low-pitched coos and hoots, often delivered from concealed canopy perches. Phrases are simple and repeated with measured pauses, carrying modestly through dense foliage.
Plumage
Mostly leaf-green upperparts with a paler, often grey-tinged head and breast; males show a vivid crimson patch on the nape. Underparts may show yellowish tones with a cleaner, paler belly. Females are duller overall with a reduced or less distinct nape patch. Compact, pigeon-like build with smooth, glossy plumage typical of fruit-doves.
Diet
Primarily consumes small fruits and berries, especially figs (Ficus) and fruits of laurels and other native forest trees. Swallows fruits whole and later disperses seeds, contributing to forest regeneration. Occasionally takes softer cultivated fruits when available at the forest edge.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the mid- to upper canopy where fruiting trees are concentrated. Regularly visits large fruiting figs and can join mixed-species feeding aggregations in peak fruiting periods.
