Spotted Imperial Pigeon

[Sylvia Ramos]

Spotted Imperial Pigeon
Ducula carola

We saw this in Ilocos Norte in May 2013, but I wasn't able to post here. Such an interesting bird, I think it's worth the trip to see them! People can start planning their trips as there birds are usually easier to see in May.

This is an endemic, described in the Kennedy guide as uncommon and local.  These birds are usually found in forests up to 2500 m. They are known to visit coastal areas in flocks, usually in May. They have been observed to go to the shorelines. It has been speculated that they are drinking sea water or eating something found on the shoreline, possibly for the minerals. More study on this phenomenon is needed.

This habit of coming down to the coast is known among the local hunters who stake out the birds and shoot them. Their numbers have dwindled and they are now considered vulnerable by the IUCN. In 2013 Richard Ruiz and Doc Pete urged the governor of Ilocos Norte to take measures to protect the species.




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[Ramon Quisumbing]

Very nice, Sylvia. I've got to go there in May.

[Ely Teehankee]

It almost looks like domestic pigeons. Must be tasty for people to hunt for them. Now that we know they are endangered perhaps the hunters will have a change of heart in killing them. Good luck to Richard Ruiz & Doc Pete in their quest to protect the Spotted Imperial Pigeon. The pictures are nostalgic. Well done Sylvia & Mabuhay.