The thick-billed ground pigeon, also known as the jungle pigeon or the slaty/grey ground pigeon, is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is monotypic within the genus Trugon. Native to New Guinea, its natural habitat is moist tropical lowland forest.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout suitable lowland and foothill rainforest across New Guinea, in both primary and well-developed secondary forest. It favors dense understory and forest floor microhabitats, often near fruiting trees and along quiet streams. The species is largely terrestrial, moving between patches of cover and using short, direct flights when necessary. It is absent from open habitats and heavily disturbed areas. Local presence can be patchy due to hunting pressure and habitat quality.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the jungle pigeon or slaty ground pigeon, it is the only member of the genus Trugon. It spends much of its time walking on the forest floor and flushes with a sudden whirr of wings when disturbed. Shy and seldom seen, it is more often heard by its low, booming coos from deep within New Guinea’s rainforests.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, occasionally in loose small groups where food is abundant. Nests are placed low, and breeding behavior is discreet within dense vegetation. Territorial responses are generally limited to soft calls and short chases on or near the ground.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of low, booming coos that carry through dense forest, often delivered at intervals from a concealed perch or the forest floor. Calls can be rhythmic and mournful, aiding contact between mates in thick cover.
