The Torresian imperial pigeon, also known as the nutmeg pigeon, white nutmeg pigeon, Australian pied imperial pigeon or Torres Strait pigeon, is a relatively large, pied species of pigeon. It is found in forest, woodland, savanna, mangrove and scrub in Australia, New Guinea, Aru Islands, islands in the Geelvink Bay, D'Entrecasteaux Islands and Louisiade Archipelago.
Region
Northern Australia and New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs across New Guinea, the Aru Islands, and coastal and island habitats of northern Australia, especially along the Cape York Peninsula and the Great Barrier Reef islands. Favors lowland rainforests, mangroves, coastal woodlands, and scrub. Breeds colonially on small offshore islands, flying to the mainland to feed. It is common around estuaries and along forested river margins where fruiting trees are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the nutmeg pigeon or Torres Strait pigeon, it is a large, mostly white imperial pigeon of the Australo-Papuan region. Many colonies breed on offshore islands and commute daily to mainland forests to feed, playing a key role as long-distance seed dispersers of figs, nutmegs, and palms. Populations in northeastern Australia have rebounded where hunting was curtailed and nesting islands were protected.
A Torresian imperial pigeon at Cairns Esplanade, north Queensland, Australia
A Torresian imperial pigeon in Melbourne Zoo. Notice the greenish-yellow bill and the black spotting to the undertail coverts.
In Queensland, Australia
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong, direct wingbeats; capable of long overwater commutes
Social Behavior
Often forms large flocks, especially when commuting between islands and mainland feeding areas. Breeds colonially on offshore islands, building flimsy stick platforms and typically laying a single egg. Both parents share incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Calls are deep, resonant coos and repeated oo-woop phrases that carry over water and through canopy. In flight, wingbeats can produce an audible clatter when birds depart roosts en masse.
