This small, colourful pigeon is an endangered subspecies found only on Christmas Island.

Growing up to 28 cm, the emerald dove is a purplish-brown with iridescent green wings. Males have a blue-grey cap on their heads.

Emerald doves forage on the ground, feeding mainly on fallen fruit. Commonly seen in pairs, they nest during the wet season (November to March), building a nest of twigs and laying two cream-coloured eggs.

Christmas Island’s emerald dove population is estimated at around 2000 birds.

Where to see them

Emerald doves can be seen foraging in most forested areas of the island.