Common Name: Crested Pigeon
Scientific Name: Ocyphaps lophotes
Range: Endemic to Australia.

Larger than its cousin the spinifex pigeon, the crested pigeon is more simply marked with black barring on the gray shoulders, iridescence showing in the white-outlined primary feathers and secondary feathers and a dark tail with a white tip. The overall soft gray plumage with a pink wash on the side of the neck is ideal camouflage for a range of habitats, and the thin crest is quite tall for the bird's size.

These birds can be found in many grasslands, scrub areas and agricultural regions of Australia.

Photo © Richard Taylor