The São Tomé olive pigeon or maroon pigeon is an endangered species of pigeon which is endemic to the island of São Tomé off the coast of western Africa. It was described by José Vicente Barbosa du Bocage in 1888.
Region
Gulf of Guinea islands
Typical Environment
This pigeon is confined to humid forest on São Tomé, favoring mature primary and well-preserved secondary forest. It is most often encountered in the mid to upper canopy, where it visits fruiting trees and occasionally forest edges. It generally avoids heavily degraded habitats and plantations with sparse canopy. Occurrence is patchy, corresponding to tracts of intact upland forest.
Altitude Range
600–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the maroon pigeon, this species is confined to the island of São Tomé in the Gulf of Guinea and was described by José Vicente Barbosa du Bocage in 1888. It is a shy canopy-dweller that is easiest to detect by its deep, resonant cooing calls. Ongoing habitat loss and hunting pressure have contributed to its Endangered status. Sightings are most frequent in mature montane forest where fruiting trees are abundant.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, powerful wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, sometimes loosely associating at fruiting trees. Nests are placed in trees within dense forest, with a small platform typical of pigeons. Clutch size is usually one egg, and both parents share incubation and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of deep, resonant coos delivered at measured intervals, carrying far through the forest. Calls often begin with a slightly emphasized first note followed by a steady, booming sequence.
