The Taiwan green pigeon or whistling green pigeon is a bird in the family Columbidae. The species was first described by Robert Swinhoe in 1863. It is found in Taiwan and Batanes in the Philippines.
Region
East Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in Taiwan and the Batanes Islands of the northern Philippines, favoring lowland to foothill broadleaf forests. It frequents forest edges, secondary woodland, coastal forests, and areas with abundant fruiting trees, especially figs. The species is predominantly arboreal, foraging high in the canopy but will descend to lower strata where fruit is plentiful. It tolerates semi-natural habitats such as orchards and wooded parks if large fruiting trees are present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the whistling green pigeon, it is a canopy-dwelling fruit specialist that helps disperse seeds of native figs. Males and females differ subtly in coloration, with males tending to show a grayer head and cleaner contrasts. It is generally shy and more often detected by its clear, whistled calls than seen. The species was described by Robert Swinhoe in 1863.
An illustration of a pair
Temperament
shy and arboreal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups at fruiting trees. Builds a flimsy platform nest of twigs in trees or dense foliage. Likely monogamous, with both sexes contributing to incubation and chick care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, mellow whistles and soft coos, often delivered from concealed perches high in the canopy. Calls carry well and often reveal its presence before the bird is seen.
Plumage
Smooth, predominantly green plumage with yellowish tones on the underparts and wing edges; males often show a slightly gray-tinged head and breast. The tail is gray-green with a darker subterminal band and paler tip. Underwings are yellowish when seen in flight.
Diet
Feeds primarily on fruit, especially figs (Ficus), along with berries and other soft fruits. It swallows small fruits whole and later disperses seeds, playing a key role in forest regeneration. Occasionally takes flower buds or tender shoots but remains strongly frugivorous. Foraging is mostly in the upper canopy, moving between fruiting trees.
Preferred Environment
Fruiting trees in evergreen forest, edges, and coastal woodland are favored. It will also visit village trees and orchards where native or cultivated figs and other fruiting species are abundant.
