Orange-breasted green pigeon

The orange-breasted green pigeon is a vibrant bird found in tropical Asia, ranging from the Indian Subcontinent to Southeast Asia, just below the Himalayas. These pigeons are often seen feeding on small fruits, usually in pairs or small flocks, quietly foraging in trees.

The male pigeon is distinguished by a pinkish band on its upper breast and a broader orange band below it. In contrast, the female displays a bright yellow breast. Unlike other green pigeon species, this one lacks maroon markings on its wings. They are commonly found in forests across regions such as the Terai, lower Himalayas, the Western and Eastern Ghats, Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, the Malay Peninsula, Vietnam, Java, and Hainan.

These pigeons typically congregate alone or in small groups and are known for their swift, direct flight. Their diet includes seeds and various fruits, even toxic ones like Strychnos nux-vomica. In India, the breeding season spans from March to September, while in Sri Lanka, it primarily occurs from December to May. During this period, males often engage in combats. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs.

Their nests are simple platforms constructed from twigs, where they lay two white eggs that hatch in about 12 to 14 days. If you listen closely, you will hear their call, a series of low, modulated whistles.