The yellowish imperial pigeon, also known as the yellow-tinted imperial pigeon or Bismarck imperial pigeon, is a relatively large species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is endemic to forest and woodland in the Bismarck Archipelago. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Melanesia, Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
Found in lowland and hill forests, including primary rainforest, forest edges, and well-wooded secondary growth. It frequents fruiting trees in the canopy and sometimes visits coastal forest and gardens where large figs occur. Roosts are often in tall trees, sometimes near the coast, with birds moving inland to feed. Habitat loss through logging and agriculture is a key pressure across its range.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the yellow-tinted or Bismarck imperial pigeon, it is restricted to the Bismarck Archipelago of Papua New Guinea. It is an important seed disperser for many native forest trees and often commutes long distances between feeding and roosting sites. Some authorities have treated it as related to or formerly within the Torresian Imperial Pigeon complex.
Temperament
wary and arboreal
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, powerful wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups at fruiting trees. Forms larger flocks when commuting between feeding and roost sites. Builds a flimsy twig platform high in a tree; clutch is typically a single white egg and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives deep, resonant coos and booming notes that carry through the canopy. Calls are most frequent at dawn and dusk, often as a spaced series of low booming phrases.
