How to identify the Nicobar Pigeon

To correctly identify the Nicobar Pigeon (Caloenas nicobarica), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

32-36 cm (12.6-14.2 in)

Wingspan

50-55 cm (19.7-21.7 in)

Weight

400-500 g (14.1-17.6 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   The head, neck, and upper breast are dark grey, transitioning to iridescent green and copper-bronze on the mantle, back, and wing coverts. The lower back, rump, and tail are pure white, creating a stark contrast. The long, hackle-like feathers on the neck and upper breast are particularly striking, displaying a metallic green and coppery sheen. The primary and secondary flight feathers are dark, often with a bluish-green gloss.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Short, stout, and slightly hooked, blackish with a small cere at the base.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown with a reddish orbital ring.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Strong, reddish-purple legs and feet.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Its most distinctive features are the iridescent green and copper hackles on the neck, the prominent dark grey crest, and the contrasting pure white tail. The reddish-purple legs are also a good field mark.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller overall, with a blackish tail (lacking the white of adults) and a less developed or absent crest. The iridescent hackles are also less pronounced or absent, and the plumage is generally browner.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes are observed.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are generally similar in plumage. Males tend to be slightly larger with a more prominent crest and longer hackles. Females may have a shorter crest and less developed hackles, and a browner underside. Juveniles are duller.

Key field marks

• Plumage Iridescence. Look for the striking metallic green and coppery-bronze sheen on the back, wings, and especially the long, hackle-like neck feathers. This is unique among pigeons in its range.
• White Tail. The pure white tail is a key field mark, contrasting sharply with the dark body plumage. This is visible both in flight and when perched.
• Crest. Observe the prominent dark grey crest on the head, which is often held erect, giving the bird a distinctive profile.
• Leg Color. Note the strong, reddish-purple legs and feet, which are often visible when the bird is walking on the ground.
• Terrestrial Behavior. Look for it foraging on the forest floor, scratching through leaf litter. While it roosts in trees, its primary feeding behavior is terrestrial.

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