The Vibrant Nicobar Pigeon is the Dodo’s Closest Living Relative
Dodo birds are a species that has faced extinction. However, their presence still lingers in this world all thanks to its closest relative, the Nicobar pigeon. Even though this colorful bird is related to the dodo bird, these two species are dissimilar in outward appearance. Some of the features that make the dodo bird stand out are its dull greyish plumage, bulbous beak, and portly frame.
Meanwhile, the Nicobar pigeons own a vibrant plumage, a thin pointed beak, and a compact frame. These ground-dwelling pigeons are perceived as one of the most beautiful species of birds. They are island birds that possess a dark slate grey body alongside iridescent blue-green and copper-bronze upper parts.
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The whitetail stands in stark contrast to its vibrant plumage. Their gleaming neck hackles further add to their beauty. The Nicobar pigeon can be discovered living in the small islands of Nicobar in India. The reason behind their colorful plumage is the fact that there are not many natural predators on the islands.
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As there is no necessity to camouflage in order to hide from their predators, they are able to develop vibrant feathers that enable them to appear unique in comparison to other pigeon and dove species. Their appearance is guaranteed to take your breath away. Both Nicobar pigeons, as well as dodo birds, are considered island birds. Another similarity they share is their inclination toward extinction.
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The Nicobar pigeon has been classified as a near-threatened species. Their population faces a huge decline in numbers due to habitat loss, hunting, and the introduction of non-native predators such as cats and rats to their breeding islands. It is still not late for us to take necessary action to conserve the Nicobar pigeon and ensure the continuation of this species. After all, we cannot allow them to become extinct just like dodo birds did, can we?
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