The Sula cuckoo-dove, is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the Sula Islands and the Banggai Archipelago in Indonesia. Prior to 2016, it was considered a subspecies of the white-faced cuckoo dove.
Region
Wallacea (eastern Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and hill forests on the Sula and Banggai island groups, favoring primary forest, forest edges, and older secondary growth. Often keeps to dense midstory and canopy, visiting fruiting trees quietly. It tolerates some habitat disturbance and may appear along forest-fringed plantations and scrub, but remains tied to wooded habitats. Typically encountered singly or in pairs rather than in large flocks.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Sula cuckoo-dove is a long-tailed island pigeon restricted to the Sula Islands and nearby Banggai Archipelago of Indonesia. It was split from the White-faced Cuckoo-Dove complex in 2016 based on differences in plumage and voice. Shy and often overlooked, it is most easily detected by its deep, resonant cooing from within forested hills.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally forming small loose groups at fruiting trees. Nests are flimsy stick platforms placed in dense vegetation or small trees. Courtship includes soft cooing and chasing flights through the midstory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of deep, resonant hoots delivered at measured intervals, often carrying far in calm conditions. Also gives soft murmuring coos during close-range interactions and duet-like sequences between mates.
