A rare and valuable pigeon only found in Con Dao National Park
- Tuesday - 24/09/2024 14:51
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The Nicobar pigeon belongs to the species Nicobarica, genus Caloenas, family Columbiformes, and order Columbidae. They can be found on small peaceful islands and in the seas of the Nicobar Islands, Malaysia, Solomon Islands, and even Palau. The Nicobar pigeon is currently the only remaining member of the Caloenas genus, the closest relative to the extinct Dodo bird.
In Vietnam, they are known by more memorable names such as long-necked pigeon, kanken pigeon, or white-tailed pigeon. They can only be found in Con Dao, Ba Ria - Vung Tau province.
One notable feature of the Nicobar pigeon is its unique plumage. The metallic blue color mixed with the mysterious copper sheen of its feathers has attracted the attention of many people. Additionally, the long feathers around its neck form an intricate layer, adding to the elegance of this pigeon species.
The plumage of the Nicobar pigeon is not just one color; it seamlessly transitions and alternates, highlighting the shimmering purplish-blue hue. If not observed closely, many people might mistake them for young peafowls.
Nicobar pigeons build simple nests on tree branches with a canopy height of 5m - 10m above the ground.
When fully grown, this pigeon species measures about 34cm in length, with its body feathers displaying a beautiful combination of metallic blue and copper colors.
Every year, these rare birds migrate to the Con Dao National Park from around April to August. They lay one egg, and the incubation period in nature is about 20 - 24 days.
Nicobar pigeons forage on flat land with fallen leaves. They search for food by flicking leaves aside and using their beaks to dig inside. Their main diet consists of forest fruits, especially hard seeds, and some invertebrates on the ground.
The Nicobar pigeon is a rare bird species recognized in the Vietnam and international Red Books.