Crested Pigeon
Ocyphaps lophotes
Aves › Columbiformes › Columbidae › Ocyphaps
Conservation status: least_concern
The crested pigeon is a bird found widely throughout mainland Australia except for the far northern tropical areas. Only two Australian pigeon species possess an erect crest, the crested pigeon and the spinifex pigeon. The crested pigeon is the larger of the two species. The crested pigeon is sometimes referred to as a topknot pigeon, a common name shared with the reddish crested Lopholaimus antarcticus of Eastern Australia.
How To Identify
It possesses a robust body structure and is distinguished by its ornate crest, which frames a generally soft coloration accented by darker markings on the wings.
Habitat
It inhabits open and semi-open woodlands, grasslands, and cultivated areas across mainland Australia, preferring areas near water sources.
Behaviour
These pigeons are highly gregarious and often gather in large flocks at waterholes during the heat of the day, and they walk along the ground with a distinctive bobbing gait.
Native Range
The crested pigeon is found widely throughout mainland Australia except for the far northern tropical areas.
Did You Know?
The Crested Pigeon produces a distinctive whistling sound with its wings during takeoff, created by specially modified flight feathers that vibrate rapidly. This acoustic signal may serve as an alarm call to warn other birds of danger.
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