The sombre pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is the only species within the genus Cryptophaps. It is endemic to the Indonesian island of Sulawesi in Wallacea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Sulawesi, Indonesia (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical to tropical moist montane forests across Sulawesi’s central and northern mountain ranges. Prefers primary forest with large fruiting trees, but may occasionally use mature secondary growth. Typically keeps to interior forest and along ridgelines where fruit resources are predictable. Often remains concealed in the mid- to upper canopy, making visual encounters infrequent.
Altitude Range
1000–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The sombre pigeon is the sole member of the genus Cryptophaps, a name reflecting its elusive, forest-dwelling habits. It is confined to the mountains of Sulawesi, where it is most often detected by its low, booming coos rather than seen. The species favors tall, mature montane forest and can be surprisingly shy, usually keeping to the canopy or mid-story. Habitat protection of Sulawesi’s uplands is important for its long-term security.
Temperament
solitary and shy
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, purposeful flight
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, occasionally in small loose groups at fruiting trees. Likely nests in the forest canopy on a simple platform like many pigeons. Breeding behavior is poorly known but presumed to involve typical pigeon courtship with soft coos and bowing displays.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice is a low, booming series of coos given at measured intervals, carrying through dense forest. Calls are often the best clue to its presence and may be delivered from a concealed perch. Vocalizations are subdued but resonant.
Plumage
Overall dark, somber grey-brown with a subdued, slightly glossy wash on the neck; flight feathers darker with paler inner-wing panels visible in flight. Underparts are dusky with a slightly paler belly, and the tail is broad and dark. Feathers appear smooth and even-toned, lacking bold barring or spots.
Diet
Feeds primarily on fruits and berries, including figs and other canopy fruits. Will swallow small fruits whole and may help disperse seeds through the forest. Occasionally takes seeds or fallen fruits on the ground but generally forages in trees.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid- to upper canopy of mature montane forest, especially at fruiting trees. Also uses forest edges and ridgelines where fruiting resources concentrate.
