The rose-crowned fruit dove, also known as pink-capped fruit dove or Swainson's fruit dove, is a medium-sized fruit dove that is found in parts of southern Indonesia, northern Australia and eastern Australia.
Region
Australasia
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Indonesia (including the Lesser Sunda Islands and southern Moluccas) through the Torres Strait islands to northern and eastern Australia, from Cape York south into northeastern New South Wales. Prefers lowland and monsoon rainforests, vine thickets, mangroves, and coastal forests, and also uses riparian corridors and forest edges. Often found high in the canopy, visiting fruiting native laurels, figs, and palms. Will occasionally enter orchards and gardens with suitable fruiting trees. Makes local, irregular movements following fruit availability.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small, vividly colored fruit-dove with a distinctive rose-pink crown bordered by yellow. It is an important seed disperser for rainforest trees, especially figs and laurels. Usually quiet and unobtrusive in the canopy, it can be more easily detected by its soft, repetitive coos. Movements are often nomadic, tracking seasonal fruiting.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight between trees
Social Behavior
Often solitary or in pairs, but may gather in small groups at heavily fruiting trees. Builds a flimsy platform nest of twigs placed well above ground in dense foliage. Typically lays a single egg; both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, low cooing notes delivered in a slow, repetitive series that can carry through dense foliage. Calls are often given from concealed perches and may include muted hoots and coos during courtship.
