Habitat:
Tropical forests, dense undergrowth, wetlands

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Thick-billed Ground Pigeon is a fascinating bird belonging to the Columbidae family. It is primarily found in the tropical forests of New Guinea. This bird is distinguished by its subtly colored plumage of browns and grays, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its forest environment. The Thick-billed Ground Pigeon is a terrestrial bird, preferring to walk on the ground rather than fly. It mainly feeds on seeds and small fruits found on the forest floor. Its discreet nature and suspicious behavior make it difficult to observe in its natural habitat. Despite this, it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Thick-billed Ground Pigeon, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. Since this bird is suspicious and prefers to stay on the ground, it is important to remain discreet and blend into the environment. The best photography opportunities often occur early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the bird is most active. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and be patient to capture natural and captivating shots.