Topknot Pigeon

The Topknot Pigeon is a large, canopy-dwelling pigeon of eastern Australian rainforests, notable for being the largest fruit-pigeon species on the continent. Its most striking feature is an unusual two-part crest on the head, a combination not seen in most other pigeon species, making it easy to identify even in flight or at a distance.

The body is predominantly grey, with darker flight feathers and a pale grey belly. The head bears a distinctive double crest: a forward-curling grey tuft above the forehead and a longer, more erect rufous-chestnut crest behind it on the crown. The tail is fairly long and dark. Compare with the White-headed Pigeon, which shares Australian rainforest habitat but has a plain white head and lacks any crest, making the Topknot Pigeon's head plumes the clearest distinguishing feature.

Sexes are broadly similar, both showing the double crest, though the rufous portion may be slightly less vivid in females. Juveniles have a much reduced or partial crest, developing the full double-crest pattern as they mature through successive molts. No strong seasonal plumage variation is documented.

Found along the rainforests of eastern Australia, from northern Queensland south into New South Wales, favoring the upper canopy of subtropical and tropical rainforest. It is nomadic to some degree, moving between regions in response to the fruiting cycles of rainforest trees.

Feeds on fruit taken directly from canopy trees, often traveling in flocks that follow fruiting patterns across the landscape. Its call is a low, guttural note, generally quieter than its conspicuous appearance might suggest. Nests are flimsy stick platforms built in tall trees. Its nomadic, fruit-following habits mean flock numbers at any one site can vary considerably through the year.