Trocaz Pigeon: where and when to see them

The trocaz pigeon is a large forest pigeon found naturally only on Madeira. A survivor of the island’s distinctive woodland fauna, it is closely associated with native laurel forest but also visits farmland and wooded settlements. Its heavy body, pinkish breast and silvery neck markings give it a dignified appearance. Historical hunting and habitat loss reduced its population, while protection and forest conservation have helped this endemic bird recover.

Size

40–46 cm length

Weight

450–550 g

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Least Concern

Trocaz pigeons often feed quietly within leafy crowns, becoming conspicuous when they fly across a valley or settle on an exposed treetop. They may gather at productive feeding trees, although nesting pairs defend their immediate surroundings. Courtship includes display flights and low pigeon calls. A simple twig platform usually holds a single egg. Movements between forest and cultivated ground follow changing food availability rather than a long-distance migration. They are generally shy and often solitary or found in small groups, except when gathering at abundant food sources. Their flight is strong and direct, characterized by rapid wingbeats followed by short glides. Nest sites are often chosen in dense undergrowth or the forks of large trees for protection.

• Its natural range is confined to Madeira.
• A normal clutch contains one egg.
• Its name derives from a Portuguese local name for the bird.
• It can feed on both native forest fruits and cultivated cabbage leaves.

The species is resident and can be sought throughout the year. Spring and early summer often offer comfortable walking conditions and vocal activity, but mountain cloud can obscure views. Fruiting trees and current local reports are more useful than a rigid seasonal calendar. Breeding typically occurs from February to September, making late spring and early summer a good time to observe courtship displays and parental activity. However, observing them can be challenging in any season due to their cryptic plumage and preference for dense canopy. Patience and a good pair of binoculars are essential regardless of the time of year.

Native laurel forest on Madeira’s moist slopes is its principal habitat, especially mature woodland with fruiting trees and sheltered valleys. It also uses forest edges, orchards and agricultural land. Most worthwhile observation requires an inland excursion rather than remaining at a coastal viewpoint. While primarily found in Madeira, a small relict population of Trocaz pigeons also persists on the nearby island of Porto Santo, though habitat there is more degraded. They prefer elevations between 400 and 1300 meters, where the cloud forest provides constant moisture and suitable vegetation. The continued health of these laurel forests is crucial for the species' long-term survival.

Native fruits, particularly those of laurel-forest trees, are important foods. Leaves, shoots, flowers and some cultivated plants supplement the diet as availability changes. Its use of farmland can bring it into conflict with growers, especially where birds feed on leafy crops. Their diet shifts seasonally, with a strong reliance on the fruits of Til (Ocotea foetens) and Barbusano (Apollonias barbujana) when available. During leaner periods, they may consume acorns from introduced oak species or fallen fruits from cultivated areas. This dietary flexibility allows them to persist even as native food sources fluctuate.

Common name

Trocaz Pigeon

Scientific name

Columba trocaz

Animal group

Birds

Size

40–46 cm length

Weight

450–550 g

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Least Concern

Identification

Compared with a wood pigeon, the trocaz has a silvery neck patch rather than a bold white one and lacks conspicuous white wing bars. Beyond the neck patch, a Trocaz pigeon can be distinguished by its darker, slate-grey plumage overall compared to a common wood pigeon. It also has a noticeably longer tail and a more robust, powerful flight. Juveniles lack the silvery neck patch, appearing duller with brownish tinges.