Silvery pigeon

The Silvery Pigeon (Columba argentina) is a critically endangered species of pigeon in the family Columbidae. It is native to the Sunda Islands in Indonesia and Malaysia.

Description

The Silvery Pigeon is a medium-sized pigeon, characterized by its silvery-grey plumage. The bird has a distinctive white head and underparts, with a contrasting dark tail and wings. The eyes are red, and the legs and feet are a dull red color.

Distribution and Habitat

The Silvery Pigeon is found in the Sunda Islands, specifically in Sumatra, Borneo, and nearby smaller islands. It inhabits coastal forests, mangroves, and sometimes inland forests. The species is known for its elusive nature, making it difficult to observe in the wild.

Behavior

Silvery Pigeons are generally solitary or found in pairs. They feed on seeds, fruits, and occasionally small invertebrates. The breeding habits of the Silvery Pigeon are not well-documented, but like other pigeons, they are likely to build simple nests in trees.

Conservation Status

The Silvery Pigeon is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection and reducing hunting pressure. The species' population is estimated to be very small and declining.

Related pages

• Columbidae
• Endangered species
• Sunda Islands