Wonga Pigeon
Leucosarcia melanoleuca
EndemicStatus
Fairly CommonRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Wonga Pigeon (*Leucosarcia melanoleuca*) is a robust, ground-dwelling pigeon native to the forests of eastern Australia. Known for its distinctive markings and deep, resot call, this species is a familiar sight in rainforests and wet eucalypt forests from central Queensland to central Victoria.
Fun Facts
The Wonga Pigeon’s deep hooting call carries over long distances but is difficult to locate.
1. Bold white "V" on the grey breast
2. Stocky build with slate-grey upperparts, white underparts, and pink-red legs
3. Bobbing head motion when walking and loud wing-clap when flushed
Wonga Pigeons are found in dense forests along Australia’s east coast, from central Queensland to central Victoria, sometimes up to 4 km inland. They prefer rainforests, wet eucalypt forests, and gullies with thick understory, but need clear patches on the forest floor for foraging. They are most active at dawn and dusk, often seen walking along forest tracks and clearings. Their presence is often revealed by their far-reaching, repetitive hooting call.
Physical Attributes
Height
38 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds77%
Top Locations
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