Where does the Nicobar Pigeon live?
Caloenas nicobarica
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Open the appThe Nicobar Pigeon lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, coastal forests, mangroves, and small offshore islands.
Geographic range
Found on the Nicobar Islands (India), Andaman Islands (India), and extends through coastal regions and small islands of Southeast Asia, including parts of Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu.
Preferred environments
Prefers undisturbed primary and secondary forests, particularly on small, uninhabited islands where predators are scarce. Often found foraging on the forest floor or along the edges of mangroves and coastal vegetation.
Elevation range
Primarily lowlands, from sea level up to approximately 100 meters (330 feet).
Where to look
Small Offshore Islands
The best places to find Nicobar Pigeons are on small, uninhabited or sparsely populated islands within its range, particularly those with dense forest cover and minimal human disturbance.
Coastal Forests and Mangroves
They can also be found in coastal forests and mangrove areas on larger islands, especially where these habitats are relatively pristine.
Protected Areas
Visiting national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in its range, such as those in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Indonesia, or Papua New Guinea, increases the chances of sighting.
Field tips
- Look on the Forest Floor. Since they are primarily ground feeders, focus your search on the forest floor, especially areas with fallen fruits and seeds. They can be surprisingly cryptic despite their bright colors.
- Listen for Calls. Their low, guttural cooing calls can help locate them, especially in dense vegetation. Listen for repeated 'coo-coo-coo' sounds.
- Check Roosting Sites. They often fly to communal roosting sites on offshore islets at dusk. Observing these flights can lead to finding larger groups.
- Be Patient and Quiet. Nicobar Pigeons are shy. Approach quietly and patiently, using binoculars to scan the undergrowth and forest floor.
Migration
Resident throughout its range, but may undertake local movements between islands for foraging or roosting. Not a migratory species in the traditional sense.
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