Vanuatu imperial pigeon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Vanuatu imperial pigeon |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ducula
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| Species: |
bakeri
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The Vanuatu imperial pigeon (also called Baker's imperial pigeon) is a type of bird found only in Vanuatu. Its scientific name is Ducula bakeri. This pigeon is part of the Columbidae family, which includes all pigeons and doves.
These birds live in the forests of Vanuatu. Sadly, their homes are being cleared for farming. Because of this, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) says this pigeon is a vulnerable species. This means it is at risk of becoming endangered.
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About the Vanuatu Imperial Pigeon
What Does It Look Like?
The Vanuatu imperial pigeon is about 40 centimeters (about 16 inches) long. Its head and the back of its neck are a dark blue-grey color. Its neck is a deep purplish-red.
The back and top of its wings are dark grey and look a bit shiny, like steel. The feathers under its wings are a reddish-brown. Its flight feathers, which help it fly, are also reddish-brown.
The pigeon's throat is dark grey. Its chest is a shiny purplish-red, and its belly is a deep reddish-brown. The feathers on top of its tail are black, and those underneath are reddish-brown. This bird has yellow eyes, a black beak, and pinkish-red feet.
Female pigeons are a bit smaller and not as brightly colored as the males. Young pigeons have much duller feathers and no shine.
Where Does It Live?
This pigeon lives only in Vanuatu. You can find it on several of the larger islands there. It mostly lives in forests on mountains. However, it can also be found in forests closer to sea level. On one island called Santo, these pigeons live in forests that are higher than 500 meters (about 1,640 feet) up.
How Does It Behave?
The Vanuatu imperial pigeon is often seen alone or in pairs. They usually stay high up in the trees. Sometimes, small groups of them can be found together. These birds are quite shy and hard to spot.
They are frugivores, which means they eat fruits. They get their food from trees, bushes, and climbing plants. They move around the islands to find enough fruit to eat. Their call is a loud sound that repeats, like "twoo-too-too-too-too." Not much is known about how they raise their young.
Why Is It Vulnerable?
Scientists believe there are between 2,500 and 10,000 adult Vanuatu imperial pigeons left. The total number of these birds is likely between 3,500 and 15,000.
Their numbers are probably going down. This is because forests are being cut down for farming, which destroys their homes. Hunting also poses a threat to them. The IUCN has listed this pigeon as a vulnerable species. This is due to its small population, which is spread out and seems to be shrinking.
