Victoria Crowned Pigeon
Goura victoria
Conservation Status
VulnerableAves · Columbiformes · Columbidae
About
The Victoria crowned pigeon is a large, bluish-grey pigeon with elegant blue lace-like crests, maroon breast and red irises. It is part of a genus (Goura) of four unique, very large, ground-dwelling pigeons native to the New Guinea region, with the Victoria crowned pigeon measuring as the largest extant species of pigeon. The bird may be easily recognized by the unique white tips on its crests and by its deep 'whooping' sounds made while calling. Its name commemorates the British monarch, Queen Victoria.
Fun Fact
Victoria crowned pigeons are the world's largest living pigeon, weighing up to 3.5 kg (7.7 lb), and their elaborate lace-like head crests are permanently erect — not raised and lowered like most crested birds.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Lowland rainforests
Diet
Frugivore
Lifespan
15-20 years
Threats
- Wildfire
- Poaching
- Habitat Fragmentation