Goura – Crowned pigeon

Goura is a remarkable genus of birds, known more commonly as crowned pigeons. These birds stand out dramatically from their more familiar city-dwelling pigeon relatives, both in size and appearance, and they are native exclusively to the dense rainforests of New Guinea and nearby islands. Their stunning crest of feathers makes them particularly eye-catching, which resembles a delicate, lacy fan atop their heads, giving them a regal and distinguished look that is unlike any other bird.

The crowned pigeons, including the Western Crowned Pigeon, the Victoria Crowned Pigeon, and the Southern Crowned Pigeon, are not just among the largest pigeons in the world, but also among the most elegant. Their size, which can match that of a turkey, their beautiful blue-gray plumage, and their striking red eyes make them truly unique. The elegant crest, used in communication and displays, particularly during mating rituals, adds to their charm.

These ground-dwelling birds, spending most of their time on the forest floor, are particularly vulnerable due to their large size and relatively slow movement. Their diet, consisting of fruits, seeds, and occasionally invertebrates, is not the only thing they forage for. They also forage for safety, relying on the dense forest cover for protection from predators, including humans.

One of the most captivating aspects of their behavior is their deep, booming call, which can be heard resonating through the forest. This call is not just a means of communication but also plays a role in maintaining territory boundaries and strengthening pair bonds. Their vocal nature is a significant part of their social interactions, particularly during the breeding season when calls play a crucial part in courtship displays.