Nicobar pigeon in exhibit

Nicobar Pigeon

Scientific Name
Caloenas nicobarica
Class
Aves
Order
Columbiformes
Range
Southern Asia and Malay Archipelago
Habitat
Tropical rainforests
Estimated Wild Population
n/a
Nicobar pigeon in exhibit Endangered Status Graph - Near Threatened Endangered Status Graph - Near Threatened

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Physical Description

Nicobar pigeons have a metallic green back and wings, a white tail, and a gray chest and head. Long, elaborate feathers stream down their neck, giving them a distinctive look. They nest in trees, where they build nests from sticks, and they often sleep on offshore islands to avoid predators. Females lay one egg each breeding period, and both the male and female cooperate in rearing their young.

Interesting Fact 1

Nicobar pigeons fly from island to island in their native range to find seeds, fruit, and insects.

Interesting Fact 2

This social species feeds in flocks of up to 85 birds.

Interesting Fact 3

Nicobar pigeons have a gizzard, a muscular organ used for grinding food, that allows them to digest hard nuts that humans often open with a hammer.

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Species Survival Plan®

We cooperate with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to manage the zoo population of this species through a Species Survival Plan®.

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Lincoln Park Zoo prioritizes individual well-being over everything else. Guided by scientific research, staff and volunteers work to provide the best welfare outcomes for each individual in the zoo’s care.

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