The spotted imperial pigeon, also known as the grey-necked imperial pigeon, is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. This species is endemic to the Philippines. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forests and tropical moist montane forest but seasonally migrates to limestone shorelines in large flocks of up to 50 individuals, for still unknown and not-well studied reasons but the prevailing theories is that it feeds on the calcium deposits.. Among the imperial pigeons of the Philippines, this species is the most threatened - assessed as a Vulnerable species with population estimates of 1,200 to 3,200 mature individuals and still believed to be on the decline due to habitat loss, hunting and capture for the illegal wildlife trade.
Region
Philippine Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occupies tropical moist lowland to lower montane forests, often in tall canopy and along forest edges and ridges. It frequents primary forest but can use older secondary growth where large fruiting trees persist. During certain seasons it moves to coastal limestone areas and cliffs, possibly for mineral resources, and may roost communally. It occasionally visits mangrove margins and forested river valleys when fruiting is abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the grey-necked imperial pigeon, this large fruit-dove is endemic to the Philippines. It favors primary and mature secondary forests but makes seasonal movements to coastal limestone cliffs, sometimes gathering in flocks of up to 50. It is a key seed disperser for many native fruiting trees, especially figs. Ongoing habitat loss and hunting pressure have pushed it toward rarity.
In illustration of a male Spotted Imperial Pigeon (carola sub-species)
A flock of Spotted Imperial Pigeons during their annual migration seaside in Ilocos Norte.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs while foraging high in the canopy, but forms loose flocks when trees are heavily fruiting. Nests high in trees on a simple platform, typically laying a single egg. Displays local seasonal gatherings at coastal limestone roosts.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives deep, resonant cooing notes in a slow series, often heard at dawn. Calls can carry far through forest, with a mellow, booming quality typical of imperial pigeons.
Plumage
Soft grey head and neck blending into darker slate-olive upperparts with distinct pale spotting on the scapulars and wing coverts; underparts pale with darker spotting toward the flanks. Tail dark with a contrasting pale terminal band and cleanly defined edges. Feathers appear sleek and satiny with a slight gloss on the mantle.
Diet
Primarily consumes fruits, especially figs (Ficus), nutmegs, and other large-seeded forest trees, swallowing them whole and dispersing seeds. Will track fruiting events across the landscape and may supplement with berries from secondary growth. Occasionally ingests grit or minerals, which may explain visits to limestone areas.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the forest canopy, often at emergent fruiting trees and along forest edges. Will also forage along ridges and in mature secondary forest where large fruit crops are present.
