The white-headed pigeon is a pigeon native to the east coast of Australia.
Region
Eastern Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs along the coastal and subcoastal ranges from northeastern Queensland south through New South Wales and into eastern Victoria. Favors subtropical and temperate rainforests, wet sclerophyll forest, and tall eucalypt woodland with dense understorey. Common around forest edges, regrowth, river corridors, and farmland with scattered tall fruiting trees. Frequently visits towns and parks where fruiting trees, including introduced species like camphor laurel and privet, are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The white-headed pigeon is endemic to eastern Australia and has adapted well to human-altered landscapes. It often feeds on fruits of both native figs and the introduced camphor laurel, helping disperse seeds over long distances. Despite its bold contrast in plumage, it can be surprisingly inconspicuous, spending much time high in the canopy.
Temperament
shy and wary, but tolerant around regular food sources
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups, especially at fruiting trees. Monogamous pairs build a simple stick platform high in dense foliage. Typical clutch of two white eggs; both sexes share incubation and chick-rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A low, resonant series of coos, often delivered from a concealed perch in the canopy. Calls are rhythmic and mellow, carrying through forest edges at dawn and dusk.
