Blaubrust-Krontaube in der Forschungsstation vom Zoo Zürich

Western crowned pigeon

Goura cristata

Among the crowned pigeons, the western crowned pigeon is the only species that does not have a reddish-brown breast, but a blue one.

VU

Red List
Vulnerable
Breeding programme

With a total length of 66 to 75 cm, the western crowned pigeon is one of the largest surviving members of the pigeon family. Like the other three pigeon species in the Goura genus, it has a delicate crest on its head.

During the day, western crowned pigeons usually stay on the ground, foraging for food to meet their diet needs. In the evening, they fly up to what is known as a roosting tree. The nest is built a few metres up in a tree. The clutch consists of a single egg, which is incubated by both parents for up to 29 days.

Due to ongoing habitat loss and unsustainable hunting, the population of the Western crowned pigeon is in decline. The species is classified as vulnerable. The pigeon is hunted for its meat and feathers. Furthermore, western crowned pigeons are frequently involved in illegal trade.

Taxonomy

Columbidae, Goura (4 species)

Habitat

rainforests and wetlands in Indonesia

Behaviour and ecology

diurnal, usually on the ground foraging

Social structure

in pairs or in small groups of up to 10 animals

Taxonomy

Columbidae, Goura (4 species)

Habitat

rainforests and wetlands in Indonesia

Behaviour and ecology

diurnal, usually on the ground foraging

Social structure

in pairs or in small groups of up to 10 animals

Godparent

Support the animals of Zoo Zurich with your annual godparent sponsorship

Western crowned pigeon for CHF 200.–

Become a godparent

Godparent

Support the animals of Zoo Zurich with your annual godparent sponsorship

Western crowned pigeon for CHF 200.–

Become a godparent
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