Topknot Pigeon
Introduction
For my bird option, I have chosen to do the Topknot Pigeon. On this page I have written some information and fun facts about this interesting animal. All information and photos on this page has come from signs, plaques and information presented at Taronga Zoo and also my observations. I hope this page is interesting and informs you about the bird.
Scientific Name
Topknot Pigeon is this animal's common name. It's scientific name is Lopholaimus Antarcticus.
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Body Covering
The Topknot Pigeon is covered in feathers, other than its beak and feet. There were many topknot pigeons in this enclosure althought most of their feathers are a dark bluey, gray colour with some light blue in ther too. Their beak is generally a a pinky colour as well as their feet.
Other Features
The Topknot Pigeon make peculiar and loud sounds. Although it is a 'tweet', it is high pitched and has a pattern to it. Whilst I was in the enclosure, one pigeon would tweet and the other would respond. So the sound must be very specific among birds as only a bird of it kind responded to its call. The Topknot Pigeon has two sets of appendages which are their wings and their feet.
Relative Size
The Topknot Pigeon is quite large amongst birds but quite small in the scheme of things. They can grow up to around 35cm in height.
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Behaviour/Zoo Keeper Facts
The Topknot Pigeon is able to fly short and long distances due to it's wings, though it cannot fly too high as its wing can only handle a certain amount of force. In this beautiful walk- in enclosure the pigeons are usually sitting, eating and communicating with each other, just like humans! They have there own mating call though it is different to their regular noises.
Extra Zoo Keeper Facts...
- Although this species is not endangered, a part of their rainforest it destroyed for wood and paper services.
- These birds' favourite fruit is the Lilli Pilli.
- The Topknot Pigeon is only found in Australia, but rarely found in Sydney.
- This pigeon is one of the largest pigeons in the world.
Habitat Description and Clarification
The Topknot Pigeon has a habitat to match their environment in the wilderness, just with a fence to protect them and prevent them from flying away. There are logs, trees and dirt on the ground. This is too help them adapt to their environment the same way they do when they are set free.