The spot-breasted cuckoo-dove, also known as Mackinlay's cuckoo-dove, is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. It is rated as a species of least concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Endangered Species.
Region
Melanesia
Typical Environment
Occurs on various islands of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. It inhabits primary and secondary evergreen forests, forest edges, and wooded gardens. The species readily uses regrowth and plantations where fruiting trees are present. It is generally more common in lowlands but can range into hill forests.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called Mackinlay's cuckoo-dove, this forest pigeon is native to Melanesian islands including Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. It often goes unnoticed as it moves quietly through dense foliage, but its low, resonant cooing carries far. Island populations show subtle differences in size and spotting. As a fruit-eater, it helps disperse seeds of many native trees.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally in small groups at fruiting trees. Nests are flimsy stick platforms placed in shrubs or small trees. Both parents share incubation and care, typically raising a single chick.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A low, resonant series of mellow coos, often delivered from a hidden perch. Calls can be spaced and repetitive, carrying well through dense forest.
Plumage
Warm rufous-brown overall with a finely spotted or speckled breast and subtly barred tail; feathers often show a soft vinous sheen. Females and immatures tend to have heavier spotting and more scalloping below.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small fruits and berries from native shrubs and trees, including figs and laurels. It swallows fruits whole and later disperses seeds. Occasionally takes seeds and falls to the ground for dropped fruit. Grit is ingested to aid digestion.
Preferred Environment
Forages within the mid-storey to canopy of forests and along edges. Also visits secondary growth, plantations, and village gardens with fruiting plants.
