São Tomé green pigeon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids São Tomé green pigeon |
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| Illustration by Albert Eckhout | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Treron
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| Species: |
sanctithomae
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The São Tomé green pigeon (scientific name: Treron sanctithomae) is a special type of bird. It belongs to the pigeon and dove family. This pigeon lives only on São Tomé Island in the country of São Tomé and Príncipe. Its natural home is in warm, wet lowland forests.
Scientists believe there are between 37,000 and 109,000 of these pigeons today. Sadly, their numbers are going down. This is mainly because their forest homes are shrinking. Also, too many pigeons are being hunted.
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About the São Tomé Green Pigeon
The São Tomé green pigeon is known for its beautiful green feathers. It blends in well with the leaves of the trees where it lives. These birds are an important part of the forest ecosystem. They help spread seeds from the fruits they eat.
Where They Live
These pigeons are found only on São Tomé Island. This island is part of the country of São Tomé and Príncipe. They prefer to live in forests that are warm and humid. These are often called subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Lost Homes
Sadly, these pigeons used to live on a smaller island called Ilhéu das Rolas. They have disappeared from there. This happened because their forest homes were destroyed. Losing their habitat means they have nowhere to live or find food.
Why They Are Special
The São Tomé green pigeon is unique because it lives nowhere else in the world. This makes it an endemic species. When a species is endemic, it means it is found only in one specific place. This makes it very important to protect.
What Their Name Means
The scientific name for this pigeon is Treron sanctithomae. The first part, Treron, comes from an Ancient Greek word. It means "pigeon" or "dove." The second part, sanctithomae, is from Late Latin. It means "of Saint Thomas." This refers to São Tomé Island.
Who Named Them
A German scientist named Johann Friedrich Gmelin officially described this bird in 1789. He gave it its first scientific name. Later, other scientists placed it in the Treron group. This group includes about 30 other types of green pigeons.
Protecting the São Tomé Green Pigeon
The São Tomé green pigeon is considered an endangered species. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever. People are working to protect these birds. They are trying to save their forest homes. They are also working to stop too much hunting.
How You Can Help
Even though you might live far away, you can help. Learning about endangered animals is a great start. You can also support groups that work to protect forests and wildlife. Every little bit helps keep these amazing birds safe for the future.
