African Green Pigeon

The African green pigeon (Treron calvus) is a beautiful bird found across sub-Saharan Africa. With its vibrant plumage and distinctive calls, it adds colour and charm to the region’s diverse avian population.

Bird information.

Where can we see an African Green Pigeon?

The African Green Pigeon (Treron calvus) can be found in Koonbung Forest next to Footsteps and can often be spotted in the lush forests, woodlands, and gallery forests that dot the landscape. Places like Abuko Nature Reserve, Bijilo Forest Park, and Makasutu Culture Forest are popular birdwatching spots where visitors have a chance to see the African Green Pigeon up close.

What does it look like?

With an average length of 28 centimetres, it possesses a plump and compact body structure. The bird’s plumage predominantly showcases a vibrant shade of green, which gives it a striking appearance. Its wings are adorned with dark brown feathers, providing a delightful contrast. A distinguishing feature of the African green pigeon is its bright orange-yellow bill and eye-ring, which adds a touch of elegance.

What does it feed on?

When it comes to feeding habits, these pigeons primarily consume a diet based on fruits and seeds. They are particularly fond of figs, which they find in abundance in rainforests and woodlands. The African Green Pigeon is a skilled forager, adept at manoeuvring through the forest canopy to locate ripe fruits and juicy berries. Their beaks are adapted for grasping and swallowing fruits whole. In addition to fruits, they may also feed on the occasional leaf or flower bud. Their diet helps disperse tree seeds, contributing to the ecosystem’s vitality.

Want to know an interesting Factoid?

One interesting fact about this pigeon is that it has specialised feet that allow it to hold onto branches tightly, even when they are upside down. This unique adaptation helps the African Green Pigeon to manoeuvre through the dense foliage of trees and feed on fruits and leaves.

How does it sound?

When the African Green Pigeon vocalizes, it produces a unique and melodious sound. The call of the African Green Pigeon can be described as a series of soft and low cooing notes, followed by a rising trill. It has a gentle and soothing quality to it, often echoing through the dense foliage of trees.

It’s call is quite pleasing to the ear, reminiscent of a peaceful natural melody. It adds to the tranquil ambience of the African forests and is often considered a pleasant sound to encounter while exploring the wilderness.