The São Tomé green pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the island of São Tomé in São Tomé and Príncipe. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. The species was described by Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1789. They have disappeared from Ilhéu das Rolas due to habitat loss. There are between 37,007 and 109,255 pigeons of this species today, but this is decreasing due to unsustainable levels of hunting.
Region
Gulf of Guinea Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout suitable forest on São Tomé, mainly in subtropical to tropical moist lowland forest, forest edges, and secondary growth. It also uses shade plantations such as cocoa where fruiting trees remain. Birds often move locally between fruiting trees, including figs, and may visit gardens. Loss of intact lowland forest reduces available habitat and connectivity between feeding sites.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This island green pigeon is confined to São Tomé, where it favors fruiting trees in lowland forests and adjacent agroforestry. Like other Treron, it swallows fruits whole and helps disperse seeds, especially figs. Hunting pressure and forest loss have reduced numbers, and it has vanished from nearby Ilhéu das Rolas.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups at fruiting trees. A simple twig platform nest is placed in dense foliage. The typical clutch is 1–2 eggs, with both parents sharing incubation and chick feeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, mellow coos and rising whistles, often delivered from concealed perches in the canopy. Calls are low-carrying but repeated, forming short, rhythmic sequences.
