The thick-billed green pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Found from the mainland of Southeast Asia through the Malay Peninsula and into the Greater Sunda Islands, including suitable lowland and hill forests. It frequents primary and secondary evergreen forest, forest edges, riverine woodland, and fruiting trees in plantations and gardens. The species is most often encountered in the mid- to upper canopy, where it forages quietly. It also visits coastal and mangrove areas when fruit is abundant. Local movements track seasonal fruiting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The thick-billed green pigeon is a canopy-dwelling fruit specialist whose heavy bill helps it handle large figs. It often travels in small, quiet flocks and plays an important role in forest regeneration by dispersing seeds. Its subdued cooing and green plumage make it easy to overlook despite being fairly widespread.
Thick-billed green pigeon male
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small groups, gathering at fruiting trees. Nests are simple stick platforms placed well above ground in dense foliage. Both sexes participate in incubation and chick rearing. Flocking can be more conspicuous when large fig trees ripen.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, low coos and whistles delivered from within the canopy. Calls are often repetitive and can be hard to locate, blending with forest ambient sounds.
Plumage
Predominantly leaf-green with a yellowish wash on the belly and vent, giving excellent camouflage in foliage. Crown and nape can appear slightly greyer, and the undertail coverts are bright yellow to yellow-orange. The bill is notably thick and pale, contrasting with the face. Overall appearance is smooth and unspotted, with clean color transitions.
Diet
Primarily frugivorous, favoring figs (Ficus) and other soft fruits and berries. It swallows fruits whole and later disperses seeds over wide areas. Occasionally takes buds and tender leaves when fruit is scarce. Visits cultivated fruit trees when available.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy of fruiting trees in forest, edges, and wooded gardens. Will also forage along rivers and in mangroves where suitable fruiting trees occur.
