ID Keys: Dark gray overall, white crown, dark pinkish bill with
paler tip, iridescent greenish back of neck with scaled appearance,
pinkish legs and feet
The
White-crowned Pigeon is a large pigeon with a range that mostly covers the
Caribbean. However, they also will nest in the summer in coastal areas
of southern Florida. They are a fruit-eating species, and the presence
of the birds typically depends upon the presence of large fruit or berry
crops. When fruits and berries become less available in a certain
area, the White-crowned Pigeon will often relocate to more favorable
habitats. While they nest in coastal mangroves, they often move
to inland areas to feed.
Habitat
Found nesting in mangrove areas along the
coast. They will use different forest habitats outside of the breeding
season, but are usually found in lowland, tropical hardwood woodlands.
Diet
Feeds on fruits and berries, as well as
seeds. They may occasionally feed on small invertebrates such as
insects or snails.
Behavior
Forages in the canopy of trees and
shrubs, searching for fruit.
Nesting
The nest of a White-crowned Pigeon is a
loose platform of twigs and grasses, placed in a tree or shrub. They
also sometimes build their nest directly on the ground, mostly in areas such
as small islands where predators are not an issue. The female usually
lays 2 eggs, and both parents help to incubate them. After the eggs
hatch, both parents help to feed the young. The young leave the nest
after about 3 weeks.
Song
The song of a White-crowned Pigeon is a
series of slow cooing notes. Also has a higher pitched and hoarser
call of multiple phrases, with the last phrase emphasized.
Migration
Movements aren't completely understood
and appear to be somewhat erratic. At least some birds that summer in
Florida winter in the Caribbean. Birds also evidently move around in
response to availability of adequate fruit or berry supplies.
