The yellow-bibbed fruit dove or yellow-banded fruit dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in the Bismarck and Solomon Islands archipelagos. The Geelvink fruit dove was formerly considered conspecific, but was split as a distinct species by the IOC in 2021.
Region
Melanesia (Bismarck and Solomon Islands archipelagos)
Typical Environment
Occurs on islands of the Bismarck Archipelago (e.g., New Britain, New Ireland) and throughout much of the Solomon Islands. Favors lowland and foothill rainforests, but also uses forest edges, secondary growth, and fruiting trees in gardens and plantations. Frequently forages in the mid- to upper canopy, moving between fruiting trees. Can persist in moderately disturbed habitats where fruit resources are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A striking island fruit-dove, the male shows a vivid yellow 'bib' across the upper breast that gives the species its name. It plays an important role in seed dispersal for many native trees and figs in Melanesian forests. The Geelvink Fruit-Dove was formerly included in this species complex but was split by the IOC in 2021.
Temperament
shy and arboreal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct dashes between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups at heavily fruiting trees. Builds a simple twig platform nest in dense foliage, typically laying a single egg. Both parents share incubation and feed the chick with nutrient-rich crop milk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, low, and resonant cooing phrases, often a repeated series of mellow notes from within the canopy. Calls carry surprising distance in forest but are easily overlooked amid insect noise.
Plumage
Predominantly leaf-green with a distinct bright yellow band across the upper chest; underparts otherwise pale to whitish with green mottling. Head and throat paler than the back, with clean contrasts; undertail often warmer-toned. Females are similar but generally duller and the yellow band may be less vivid.
Diet
Primarily eats small fruits and berries, especially figs (Ficus) and drupes from native forest trees. Swallows fruits whole and later disperses seeds, aiding forest regeneration. May also take tender buds and the occasional insect incidentally while foraging.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the mid- to upper canopy of primary and secondary rainforest. Also visits forest edges, village fruit trees, coconut and mixed-crop plantations when fruiting is abundant.
