The silver-tipped imperial pigeon, also known as the white imperial pigeon or white-tipped imperial pigeon, is a relatively large species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to forest, woodland and mangrove on Sulawesi and smaller nearby islands.
Region
Sulawesi and nearby islands (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
Occupies primary and secondary lowland and hill forests, edges, and mangrove stands, often on small offshore islets. It typically forages in the upper canopy but will descend to mid-levels at fruiting trees. The species tolerates some disturbance and may visit village fruit trees and plantations near forest. Roosting often occurs communally in coastal mangroves or tall shoreline trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This large imperial pigeon is endemic to Sulawesi and nearby islands, where it spends most of its time high in the forest canopy. It is an important seed disperser for many rainforest trees, especially figs. The species is sometimes confused with the Pied/White Imperial Pigeon elsewhere, but its subtle silvery tipping to the wings and tail and its restricted range help separate it.
Temperament
wary and alert, usually calm when perched high
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, occasionally forming larger flocks at fruiting trees. Nests are simple stick platforms placed high in trees, with a typical clutch of one egg. Both parents share incubation and chick rearing. Roosting can be communal, especially in coastal mangroves.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives deep, resonant coos and booming hoots that carry through the canopy. Calls are measured and repetitive, often delivered at dawn and dusk. Soft contact coos are used within small groups.
Plumage
Mostly silky white with contrasting blackish outer primaries and tail band; many feathers show a faint silver-grey tipping, especially on the wings and tail. The underwings are dusky toward the tips. Plumage appears clean and glossy in good light.
Diet
Primarily consumes figs (Ficus) and other soft fruits and drupes, swallowing them whole and later dispersing seeds. It visits fruiting trees regularly and may track seasonal fruit availability across nearby islands. Occasionally takes berries from forest edges and plantations. Its fruit-heavy diet makes it an effective long-distance seed disperser.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mostly in the upper canopy of lowland and hill forests, including secondary growth. Also uses mangroves, coastal woodland, and forest edges, and may visit village trees or plantations when fruiting.
