Blue-capped Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus monacha Scientific name definitions

The Blue-capped Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus monacha) is a handsome, diminutive fruit-dove endemic to the North Moluccas in Indonesia. Mainly rich olive-green, the male has a distinctive blue crown, yellow supercilium, and variable bluish breast (which are reduced or absent in females). It is a small-island species mainly found in coastal woodland, secondary growth, disturbed forests, and mangroves at elevations up to 750 m. It has also been observed in primary rainforest and tree plantations. A shy, solitary species, it is usually seen alone or in pairs, but forms flocks with congeners while feeding at fruiting trees.

The Blue-capped Fruit-Dove is generally an uncommon resident throughout its range, although it can be locally and seasonally common in some areas. Its population is small and is likely declining due to habitat loss caused by deforestation, although its ability to use disturbed habitats and secondary growth may make it less vulnerable than previously thought. Due to these factors, it is listed as Near Threatened by BirdLife International.

This species is very poorly studied and many aspects of its biology are unknown. Very little information is available regarding its dietary habits and behavior, and nothing is known about its breeding habits. Most aspects of its population biology also remain unstudied.