Perhaps the pigeon is one of the most familiar bird species to us, as they are found almost all over the world. They possess a gentle and adorable appearance, and their image represents peace, love, and happiness.
However, the pigeon family comprises not just one single species but around 150 different species. Among them is a bird species that possesses exquisite beauty, as described below:
This beautiful bird is a species belonging to the pigeon family, known as the Victoria Crowned Pigeon.
They are named after Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and possess a beauty that is often referred to as the epitome of elegance.
The most noticeable feature of the Victoria Crowned Pigeon is its grayish-blue plumage, vibrant red eyes with black rims, and a prominent crest on its head.
The white spots on the crest give the bird an elegant and regal appearance, resembling a queen wearing a crown.
The unique characteristic of this bird is that the male and female individuals have identical physical appearances. Their gender cannot be distinguished by visual observation alone and requires DNA testing or surgical examination to determine.
With an average body length ranging from 73 to 75 cm, and exceptional individuals reaching up to 80 cm in length and weighing around 3.5 kg, the Victoria Crowned Pigeon is considered the largest pigeon species in the world.
They primarily inhabit wetlands, areas with alluvial mud deposits, and swampy regions, as well as waterlogged coconut palm forests in northern New Guinea and the surrounding islands.
They primarily inhabit wetlands, areas with alluvial mud deposits, and swampy regions, as well as waterlogged coconut palm forests in northern New Guinea and the surrounding islands.
Their diet primarily consists of ripe fruits and occasionally includes seeds and invertebrates.
Their diet primarily consists of ripe fruits and occasionally includes seeds and invertebrates.
Their diet primarily consists of ripe fruits and occasionally includes seeds and invertebrates.
During the breeding season, the male often courts the female with a courtship display known as “bill clapping.” They raise their heads high and then rapidly bring them down in a rhythmic motion, accompanied by a distinct clapping sound. Their tail is raised and flared with each downward movement, resembling the chopping of wood.
The female typically lays only one egg inside the nest, and then both parents take turns incubating the egg for about 30 days.
After hatching, the young bird will be cared for by its parents for about 13 weeks. During this time, they provide it with food and protection. Afterward, the young bird will leave the nest and become independent, living on its own.
As we can see, even though the young birds don’t have full feathers and wings, they still manage to make an impression with their unique head crest.
As they approach adulthood, their plumage becomes more distinct, and they truly take on the appearance of a mature Victoria crowned pigeon.
Currently, this beautiful bird species is listed as endangered, facing the risk of extinction.
The main reasons for their endangered status are habitat loss due to deforestation and indiscriminate hunting for their feathers and meat.
Indeed, the fact that they only lay one egg at a time further complicates the conservation of this species and makes it challenging to maintain their population numbers.
The Victoria Crowned Pigeon is found more commonly in conservation areas rather than in the wild. The decline in their natural habitat and the threats they face have led to a reduced population in the wild. Conservation efforts and captive breeding programs are crucial in preserving and increasing their numbers to prevent their extinction.
