Red-plumed Spinifex Pigeon
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Geophaps plumifera or the Red-plumed Spinifex Pigeon
A small, distinctive pigeon usually found in pairs or small parties of up to 12 birds. The Red-plumed Spinifex Pigeon is a beautiful pigeon found in Central and North Australia including the West Coast. It breeds through the year, and is a permanent resident of the arid spinifex grasslands. Although from dry areas, they must have access to water. After the rains, when the ground is covered with quick growing plants, the pigeons breed and their numbers increase. Though they live on the ground and can walk long distances, they are still very capable of flying.
The Red-plumed Spinifex Pigeon is almost exclusively terrestrial in its habits, and seldom flies. It is generally tame and approachable and has the habit of sitting motionless for long periods on a rock or some other conspicuous vantage point. The sexes in this species look very similar. Immature birds resemble adults, but have less distinct markings.
Did you know...
- The Red-plumed Spinifex Pigeon is almost exclusively terrestrial in its habits, and seldom flies. It is approachable and has the habit of sitting motionless for long periods on a conspicuous vantage point.
- Though they live on the ground and can walk long distances, they are still very capable of flying.
- These distinctive pigeons are usually found in pairs or small parties of up to 12 birds.
- After the rain, when the ground is covered with quick growing plants, the pigeons breed and their numbers increase.
Where in Australia you can find Red-plumed Spinifex Pigeons:
