Orange-breasted Green Pigeon (Treron bicinctus) – A Comprehensive Study
Taxonomy & Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves
- Order: Columbiformes
- Family: Columbidae
- Genus: Treron
- Species: Treron bicinctus
The Orange-breasted Green Pigeon (Treron bicinctus) is a strikingly colorful bird belonging to the Columbidae family, which includes pigeons and doves. This species is notable for its vibrant plumage and its preference for forested and mangrove habitats.
Morphology & Physical Description
- Size: 27–30 cm in length
- Weight: 200–250 grams
- Plumage: Primarily green, providing excellent camouflage among foliage
- Head & Neck: Light greenish-yellow with a faint orange wash on the breast
- Wings: Olive-green with a darker black-edged band on coverts
- Belly: Pale yellow to cream-colored
- Eyes: Bright yellow with a black pupil
- Beak: Short, bluish-grey with a white tip
- Legs & Feet: Reddish-pink, aiding in gripping tree branches
Habitat & Distribution
The Orange-breasted Green Pigeon is predominantly found in:
- Dense tropical forests, deciduous woodlands, and mangrove forests
- Riverine and coastal vegetation
- Lowland and hilly terrain up to 1,500 meters above sea level
Presence in the Sundarban
The Sundarban, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a rich variety of avifauna, including the Orange-breasted Green Pigeon. This species thrives in:
- Mangrove forests, where it finds abundant food sources
- Riparian and swampy forest edges
- Tall trees near estuarine zones
Although not as common as some other pigeon species, it is occasionally sighted in the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve, particularly in the fringes of the forested areas.
Feeding Behavior & Diet
The Orange-breasted Green Pigeon is frugivorous, meaning it primarily feeds on:
- Wild fruits (figs, berries, and drupes)
- Flower buds and tender leaves
- Occasionally small seeds
Foraging Strategy
- Feeds high in the canopy, rarely descending to the ground
- Often seen in small flocks or pairs, especially during the breeding season
- Plays an essential role in seed dispersal, aiding forest regeneration
Breeding & Nesting
- Breeding Season: Varies across regions but generally occurs from March to June
- Nest Sites: Flat platforms of twigs placed high in trees for protection
- Clutch Size: Typically two white eggs
- Incubation Period: Around 12–14 days, with both parents sharing duties
- Parental Care: Chicks are altricial (born helpless), requiring full parental care for several weeks
Vocalization & Communication
- Soft, repetitive “coo-coo” calls used for mating and communication
- Low-pitched, rhythmic sounds when alarmed
- Males call persistently during courtship displays
Special Adaptations
- Excellent Camouflage: The green plumage blends perfectly with dense foliage, reducing predation risk.
- Strong Flight Abilities: Despite their compact bodies, they can fly swiftly between forest patches.
- Fruit Digestion Efficiency: They can digest a wide variety of wild fruits, aiding in seed dispersal across the ecosystem.
- Mangrove Adaptation: Unlike most pigeons, they can survive in saline environments, such as the Sundarban mangrove ecosystem.
Threats & Conservation Status
Threats:
- Habitat destruction due to deforestation
- Illegal hunting for food and pet trade
- Climate change and rising sea levels affecting mangrove forests
IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
Although globally stable, localized declines have been observed due to habitat degradation. Sustainable conservation efforts in the Sundarban are crucial for maintaining its population.
Conclusion
The Orange-breasted Green Pigeon (Treron bicinctus) is an important frugivore and seed disperser in forest ecosystems, including the Sundarban. Its vivid colors, soft cooing calls, and adaptability to mangroves make it a unique species within its range. Protecting the Sundarban’s mangrove forests is vital for ensuring the continued presence of this beautiful bird in the region.