“The Golden Fruit Dove: A Stunning Display of Avian Beauty”

Most of us, quite rightly so, think that doves are either grey or pure white because those are the only ones we have ever seen.

But many doves are far more colorful than that, especially the stunning golden fruit dove.

Native to the islands of Viti Levu, Beqa, Ovalau, Gau, and Waya in Western Fiji, this spectacular species is also known as the yellow dove or lemon dove. The golden fruit dove (Ptilinopus luteovirens) is mainly famous for its long slender feathers around its breast, which can appear like human hair from a distance, according to Australian Geographic.

The male is the most colorful member of this species, covered in remarkable golden plumage which gives off a striking iridescent sheen. Though his head is duller, having a green tinge, it only makes the rest of his body seem to shine that much more. The bare skin around his eyes is bluish-green, as is the skin on his legs.

Female golden doves are easily differentiated from males as they have dark green plumage flecked with occasional yellow feathers. Juvenile members of this species tend to resemble the females.

Rarely seen near ground level, the golden fruit dove naturally inhabits open forests, gallery forests, and secondary growth, but can also be found in mature rainforests with tall trees.

Additionally, these species are occasionally found near populated areas such as towns and villages.

While the golden fruit dove certainly puts on a colorful show, its cousins—the whistling fruit dove and the orange dove—wow with other colors of the palette. The orange fruit dove, scientifically known as Ptilinopus victor, has the same elongated, “hair-like” body feathers as the golden fruit dove. In its case, however, these feathers are bright orange and contrast with an olive-colored head.

It resembles its golden cousin in every way but resides on different Fiji islands such as Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Rabi, Kioa, Qamea, and Laucala islands.

Meanwhile, the whistling fruit dove (Ptilinopus layardi), or velvet dove, is just as striking. Like its cousins, it has brightly colored upperparts, with a contrasting bright yellow head.

The golden and orange doves are listed as species of “Least Concern” by the IUCN, indicating that they are not currently facing significant conservation threats. However, the velvet dove is listed as “Near Threatened,” suggesting that it is at risk of becoming endangered if protective measures are not taken.

These avian wonders serve as a reminder of the remarkable diversity and beauty found in the world of birds. With their vibrant colors and unique features, the golden fruit dove and its relatives captivate the imagination and inspire awe in those fortunate enough to encounter them in the wild. Their presence in Fiji’s natural ecosystems is a testament to the importance of preserving and protecting the rich biodiversity of our planet.