Biology

This frugivorous pigeon feeds on the fruits of both native and exotic plants, including large quantities of guava (Psidium guajava), as well as on leaves, flowers, grain and invertebrates (3) (4) (5). Very little is known about the Marquesan imperial-pigeon's courtship and reproduction. The breeding season is thought to be long, extending from at least mid-May to December. Nests are usually situated in trees at between 13 and 20 m above the ground, but may be as low as 5 m (4). Only one egg is laid at a time, suggesting that the species is long-lived with a slow reproductive turnover (3).