The Vanuatu imperial pigeon or Baker's imperial pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to Vanuatu and lives in forests. It is threatened by forest clearing, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed it as a vulnerable species.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Vanuatu archipelago)
Typical Environment
Occurs on larger, forested islands across Vanuatu, primarily in intact lowland and hill tropical moist forests. It favors tall primary forest but will use mature secondary forest and forest edges when fruiting trees are abundant. Birds spend most time in the mid- to upper canopy and move locally to track fruit availability. It is generally scarce near heavily disturbed areas and avoids extensive open habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Baker's imperial pigeon, this large fruit-dove is confined to forested islands of Vanuatu. It plays a key role as a seed disperser for native trees, especially figs. The species is wary and often detected more by its deep, resonant cooing than by sight. Habitat loss and hunting pressure have contributed to declines, and it benefits from protection of intact canopy forest.
Temperament
solitary and wary, often secretive in canopy
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, powerful wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, occasionally in small groups at fruiting trees. Nests high in the canopy on a simple stick platform, typically laying a single egg like many imperial pigeons. Courtship involves soft cooing and short display flights between branches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A deep, resonant series of booming coos, often carrying far through forest. Notes are spaced and low-pitched, giving a mournful, drum-like quality.
