Medium-sized chunky pigeon that is dark blue with a maroon tail. Appears short-tailed in flight. Found in and around rainforest in eastern, central, and northern Madagascar. Most often seen perched up conspicuously on emergent trees, feeding on fruiting trees, or in flight in small flocks. Virtually silent, which is very unusual for a pigeon. Dark-blue coloration separates it from all other pigeons on Madagascar.