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Yellow-necked Green Pigeon look-alikes

Treron vernans

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Several birds can be mistaken for the Yellow-necked Green Pigeon. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.

Birds to compare

Pink-necked Green Pigeon

Treron vernans

Key differences

The Yellow-necked Green Pigeon was formerly considered a subspecies of the Pink-necked Green Pigeon (Treron vernans). However, recent taxonomic revisions (e.g., by IOC) have split them into two distinct species. The key difference is the male's neck patch: Yellow-necked has a bright yellow patch, while Pink-necked has a pink patch. Females are very similar and difficult to distinguish in the field without clear views of undertail coverts or vocalizations.

Little Green Pigeon

Treron olax

Key differences

Males of Little Green Pigeon have a grey head and breast, and a chestnut mantle, lacking the yellow neck and pinkish-orange breast of the Yellow-necked Green Pigeon. Females are entirely green with a greyish wash on the head, but lack the distinct yellow undertail coverts of the Yellow-necked Green Pigeon.

Thick-billed Green Pigeon

Treron curvirostra

Key differences

Thick-billed Green Pigeons have a noticeably thicker, heavier bill. Males have a maroon mantle and grey head, but lack the yellow neck and pinkish-orange breast. Females are duller green with a greyish head, but their bill shape is a key distinguishing feature.

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