Adorned with vibrant feathers, the Mariana fruit dove is a small but dazzling resident of the Mariana Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Imagine a bird about the length of a pencil with a body like a plump green apple. That’s the Mariana fruit dove! Unlike ground-dwelling pigeons, this little bird prefers the leafy heights of the island’s rainforests.
The Mariana fruit dove’s most striking feature is its colorful plumage. Its back and head are a soft, cool green, like fresh leaves. But its belly pops with a bright sunshine yellow, and its chest showcases a stunning band of dark feathers. To top it all off, a splash of vibrant red decorates its forehead, making it a real head-turner in the rainforest!
Despite its beauty, the Mariana fruit dove is a shy creature. It prefers the quiet solitude of the trees and isn’t often seen by humans. But if you’re lucky enough to spot one, you might hear its soft cooing calls echoing through the forest canopy. These coos are gentle and melodic, a peaceful sound amidst the lush greenery.
The Mariana fruit dove plays an important role in the island’s ecosystem. It feasts on a variety of fruits, acting like a tiny seed disperser. As it munches on its favorites, like figs and berries, the dove carries some of the seeds within its body. Later, when it deposits droppings elsewhere in the forest, these seeds have a chance to sprout and grow into new plants, helping the rainforest thrive.
Distribution
Guam
Official estimate
Nort. Mariana Is.
Official estimate
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic / Monomorphic (size)
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Frugivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
