The western crowned pigeon, also known as the common crowned pigeon or blue crowned pigeon, is a large, blue-grey pigeon with blue lacy crests over the head and dark blue mask feathers around its eyes. Both sexes are almost similar but males are often larger than females. It is on average 70 cm (28 in) long and weighs 2.1 kg (4.6 lbs).
Region
New Guinea (West Papua)
Typical Environment
Occupies primary and well-regenerated secondary lowland rainforests, especially on alluvial plains and along river systems. Frequently uses swamp forest, sago palm stands, and seasonally flooded areas with dense understory. Forages on the forest floor in shaded interiors and along quiet forest tracks, moving to trees to roost and nest. Tolerates light logging but declines with heavy disturbance and intense hunting pressure.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
One of the world's largest pigeons, the western crowned pigeon is notable for its intricate, lacy blue crest and striking red eyes. It forages mostly on the forest floor but roosts and nests in trees, typically laying a single egg. Heavily hunted for meat and trapped for the pet trade, it has declined in many accessible areas. It can be confused with the Victoria crowned pigeon but lacks the prominent white wing bar of that species.
Temperament
wary but relatively calm in undisturbed forest
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with explosive takeoffs
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes loosely associating with other ground-foraging pigeons. Monogamous pairs build a simple twig platform nest in trees and typically lay a single egg. Both sexes share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Displays include deep bowing and crest-fanning during courtship.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Produces low, resonant booming hoots that carry through the forest understory. Also gives soft grunts and clapping wing sounds during alarmed flights. Vocalizations are usually delivered from a concealed perch.
