Crested and Feral Pigeons feeding on fig-seeds: Commensalism, Feeding-rates and Vigilance

Abstract

Crested Pigeons Ocyphaps lophotes and Feral Pigeons Columba livia were observed feeding on fig-seeds which had passed through the digestive tract of Figbirds Sphecotheres viridis and so had become available to ground feeders. Although Figbirds and fig-fruits were present throughout the year, most pigeons fed on fig-seeds from March to May. A higher proportion of Crested Pigeons than Feral Pigeons fed on fig-seeds and for both species, this proportion appeared to be increasing over the 2-year study period. Crested Pigeons had a higher peck rate, a lower pace rate and thus higher feeding efficiency than Feral Pigeons. Crested Pigeons in large flocks peck more often and jerk their heads less often (predator surveillance) than in small flocks.