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Pink Pigeon

Pink Pigeon
Phylum : Chordata
Class : Aves
Order : Columbiformes
Family : Columbidae
Genus : Nesoenas
Species : mayeri

Length : 13in (32cm)
Weight : 12oz (350g)

IUCN Status : Endangered

The Pink Pigeon is another one of those species that was on the brink of extinction only a few years ago. Without the tireless efforts of dedicated conservationists, this species, found only on Mauritius, would've been gone forever. In 1990 the population was down to only 10 wild birds. There are now around 300.

Like many other island bird species, the Pink Pigeon saw its number cut due to the introduction of non-native animals like rats. One of the conservation measures is to reduce the number of these damaging predators. Other steps include captive breeding, reintroduction, restoration of habitat, and supplementary feeding.

Pink Pigeons look quite a bit like the common Rock Pigeons that many of us see every day.... except that they are pink! They live in small flocks that feed on vegetative  material. Breeding pairs are monogamous, and both parents help to build nests, incubate, and care for their young.

The Pink Pigeon has thus far been a success story for Mauritius. However, one of it's closest island cousins, the Dodo, was not so lucky, and went completely extinct in 1680.


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  1. AnonymousApril 5, 2011 at 2:44 PM

    I know I saw a pink pigeon in Chicago today. I started doing some research as soon as I got home. Strange that I saw one in Chicago.

    ReplyDelete

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