The speckled wood pigeon, also known as Hodgson's pigeon or the jungle pigeon, is a medium-sized pigeon of the bird family Columbidae and genus Columba. It is a monotypic species. It measures 38–40 cm (15–15.5 in) in length, with males featuring a pale gray head and females having a grayish-brown head. Males have a distinctive pinkish-silver breast speckled with black spots and a maroon belly, while females exhibit less vibrant coloration. Both sexes have blackish-brown tails and primaries, iris color differs slightly. The species is distributed across the Himalayas extending from Kashmir to western and central China, as well as parts of India, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and Afghanistan. Inhabiting evergreen and semi-evergreen hill forests at elevations of 1,800–4,000 meters (5,900–13,100 ft), descend in winter based on food availability. Diet consists mainly of acorns, berries, and fruits, typically foraging in small flocks. Breeding occurs from May to August, with nests situated 3–8 meters (9.8–26.2 ft) above ground.
Region
Himalayas and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Himalayas from northern Pakistan and India through Nepal and Bhutan to extreme northeast India, extending east into northern Myanmar, southwest China (e.g., Yunnan, Sichuan), and parts of northern Laos and Thailand. It inhabits evergreen and semi-evergreen hill and montane forests, especially oak, laurel, and rhododendron associations. Birds are most typical in dense, mature forest but also use edges, clearings, and secondary growth when fruiting trees are present. In winter they may descend to lower valleys and foothills following food availability.
Altitude Range
1800–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Hodgson's pigeon, this shy forest pigeon is named after the naturalist Brian Houghton Hodgson. It makes altitudinal movements, descending from high montane forests to lower elevations in winter where food is more abundant. Flocks often gather at fruiting oaks and laurels. Its sexes differ subtly, with males showing a paler gray head and a more vividly speckled, pinkish-silver breast.
![Speckled wood pigeon illustration in Indian Pigeons and Doves (1913)[7]](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/78/ColumbaHodgsonii.jpg/640px-ColumbaHodgsonii.jpg)
Speckled wood pigeon illustration in Indian Pigeons and Doves (1913)[7]
Speckled Wood-Pigeon from Bhutan.
Fruits of Prinsepia utilis
Temperament
wary and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen singly, in pairs, or in small parties that may gather at fruiting trees. Breeding occurs mainly from May to August; a flimsy twig platform is placed 3–8 m above ground in a tree. Clutch is typically one to two eggs, with both parents sharing incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A deep, resonant series of coos delivered in measured rhythm, carrying well through montane forest. Calls can include low booming hoots and soft contact coos when in small flocks.
