The Tanimbar cuckoo-dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to the Tanimbar Islands in Indonesia. It was previously grouped together with the Timor cuckoo-dove and the Flores Sea cuckoo-dove as the dusky or bar-necked cuckoo-dove.
Region
Maluku Islands (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout the Tanimbar archipelago in primary and secondary lowland forest, forest edges, and wooded plantations. It frequents fruiting trees in the midstory and canopy but will also descend to take fallen fruits along tracks and clearings. The species tolerates some habitat modification and can appear in village groves and gardens near forest. Dense interior forest provides key nesting and refuge sites. Availability of fruiting figs and other native trees strongly influences local presence.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This long-tailed dove is confined to the Tanimbar Islands of Indonesia, where it occupies a variety of wooded habitats. Formerly treated as part of the dusky/bar-necked cuckoo-dove complex, it is now recognized as a distinct island endemic. It is typically shy, slipping through foliage to feed at fruiting trees. Its low, resonant coos carry surprisingly far through the forest.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, often quiet and unobtrusive while feeding. Nests are flimsy stick platforms placed in dense foliage or vine tangles. Pair bonds are maintained with soft contact calls and display bowing. Breeding likely follows local rainfall and fruit availability.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of low, resonant coos delivered in measured sequences, often starting softly and carrying through the forest. Males give repetitive phrases from concealed perches, especially at dawn and late afternoon.
Plumage
Warm rufous-brown overall with a pinkish wash on the breast and subtly barred hindneck. The upperparts are cinnamon-brown with slight iridescence on the nape; underparts are paler with faint mottling. The tail is long and graduated with a darker subterminal band and paler tips.
Diet
Primarily eats small fruits and berries, including figs and drupes from native forest trees. Also takes fallen fruits on the ground and occasionally small seeds. Grit is ingested to aid digestion, and it may opportunistically sample tender shoots when fruit is scarce. Foraging is typically deliberate, picking items individually.
Preferred Environment
Feeds at fruiting trees in the canopy and midstory and along forest edges with dense fruiting shrubs. Will visit village orchards and plantation edges where suitable fruit is available.
