Victoria crowned pigeon

Victoria crowned pigeon facts 

• Weighing up to 3.5kg, these are the largest members of the pigeon and dove family.
• They were named after Queen Victoria and her iconic jewels.
• Listen out closely for their deep, booming calls which they use to communicate.
• Pigeon chicks are known as squabs, and Victoria crowned pigeon squabs are born with miniature versions of their parents' crowns!
• These pigeons spend most of their time on the forest floor looking for food, but will fly up into the trees with a loud flapping noise if they feel threatened.
• During the breeding season males will perform a special dance for females featuring head bobbing and tail wagging.
• These pigeons are closely related to the now extinct dodo!

What do Victoria crowned pigeons eat?

Fruit, berries, seeds and insects.

Victoria crowned pigeon habitat 

Tropical forests in Papua New Guinea and some surrounding islands.  

What threats do Victoria crowned pigeons face? 

Poaching for their meat and feathers and habitat loss due to logging. You can help to protect these beautiful birds and other rainforest dwelling animals by looking out for the FSC logo on wood, paper and cardboard products. 

Where can I find Victoria crowned pigeons at London Zoo? 

You can find the Victoria crowned pigeons in the Blackburn Pavilion walkthrough in the Zoo's Orange Zone.