The
white-headed pigeon (
Columba leucomela) is a species of pigeon native to the east coast of Australia, belonging to the same
genus as the
common pigeon. It builds a
nest generally consisting of scanty twigs, usually placed high in the
canopy up to 18 metres (59 ft) above the ground, and tends to lay one cream-white egg. Breeding takes place mostly from October to December. The species is often found alone, in pairs or in small flocks. They are very quiet and elusive, and their flight is swift and direct. Its
call is loud and gruff, sounding like a
whoo followed by a gruff inhalation like
uk (repeated three times). Sometimes the call is a low
oom. This male white-headed pigeon was photographed near
Brunkerville in New South Wales.
Photograph credit: John Harrison