Behavior

The behavior of Chatham Island Pigeons, also known as Parea, is influenced by a combination of innate instincts, environmental factors, and social interactions. One of the primary behaviors of Chatham Island Pigeons is foraging for food. Chatham Island Pigeons are also known for their social behaviors, often forming monogamous breeding pairs during the breeding season. These pairs engage in courtship displays, vocalizations, and nest-building activities to establish and maintain their bond. Once paired, they collaborate in raising their offspring, sharing duties such as incubating eggs and feeding chicks.

Roosting and nesting behaviors are essential aspects of the Chatham Island Pigeon's life cycle. During the breeding season, they construct simple nests made of twigs, leaves, and other materials in tree branches or shrubs. They use a variety of vocalizations, including cooing calls, alarm calls, and territorial calls, to communicate with conspecifics and establish their presence within their territory. Vocalizations are also used during courtship rituals and to coordinate activities with their mate and offspring.

They may engage in displays of aggression, such as wing-flapping and bill-rattling, to deter competitors or predators from encroaching on their territory. Territorial boundaries are often established through vocal signals and physical interactions with neighboring pigeons.

During the non-breeding season, Chatham Island Pigeons may form loose flocks or aggregations, particularly around abundant food sources such as fruiting trees or feeding grounds.

Migration is not a significant aspect of the behavior of Chatham Island Pigeons, as they are primarily sedentary birds with localized movements within their island range. However, they may exhibit seasonal movements in response to changes in food availability or environmental conditions, particularly during periods of drought or resource scarcity. Overall, the behavior of Chatham Island Pigeons reflects their adaptation to the unique ecological dynamics of the Chatham Islands and their reliance on social interactions and resource availability for survival.