The Ryukyu green pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the Ryukyu Islands in Japan. It was formerly considered a subspecies of the Taiwan green pigeon, but phylogenetic evidence indicates that both are distinct species, and it has thus been split by the IUCN Red List, BirdLife International, and the International Ornithologists' Union.
Region
Ryukyu Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs on forested islands of the central and southern Ryukyus, favoring subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest, secondary woodland, and forest edges. It also visits coastal groves and rural areas with fruiting trees. Birds are mostly canopy-dwellers but will descend to mid-levels to feed. Breeding sites are typically in quiet forest patches with adequate fruit resources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This subtropical green pigeon is confined to Japan’s Ryukyu Islands and is an important disperser of native fruiting trees, especially figs. It was long treated as a subspecies of the Taiwan green pigeon, but genetic studies support full species status. It is typically shy and keeps to forest canopies, where its green plumage provides excellent camouflage.
Temperament
shy and canopy-oriented
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Often seen singly or in small loose groups, especially at fruiting trees. Forms monogamous pairs during the breeding season, building a simple twig platform nest in trees. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, low-pitched coos and whistles that carry through forest canopies. Phrases are repeated in short sequences, often most active at dawn and dusk.
Plumage
Glossy green upperparts with yellowish-green underparts and smooth, compact plumage typical of green pigeons. Males show a contrasting chestnut-maroon patch on the wing coverts and a pale grey to bluish-tinged crown. Tail is dark with a pale terminal band; undertail may show yellowish tones.
Diet
Primarily consumes small fruits and drupes, especially figs (Ficus) and other native forest fruits. It swallows fruits whole and later disperses seeds, playing a key ecological role. Occasionally takes buds and tender leaves when fruit is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy of fruiting trees in evergreen broadleaf forest and wooded edges. Will also visit orchards or roadside trees when heavily laden with fruit.
