Justification
This wide-ranging species is rarely encountered but is assumed to have a small population that is declining through forest loss. Its confiding behaviour, flocking habits, specialised food requirements and nomadic nature make it susceptible to hunting^6,11. Information from at least one site, Hauta, suggests that the population may be declining rapidly. These factors together qualify it as Vulnerable.

Threats
This large pigeon is hunted by villagers around Hauta and elsewhere across its range. Forest is being degraded through logging activities and pressure on land for cultivation is a problem on the over-populated island of Malaita .

Conservation
The effects of hunting pressure and the foraging behaviour of large pigeons has been studied briefly at Hauta. The forests around Hauta are part of an integrated conservation and development programme⁶. Community-based education programmes have started around Komarindi⁹.

Targets
*Survey other areas of Guadalcanal and Malaita. *Interview local hunters across the range. *Monitor population trends around Hauta. *Determine food source dependence. *Investigate effects of logging and clearance for gardens on food source trees. *Assess the effects of community-based education programmes. *Develop hunting guidelines with local communities. *Extend awareness programmes to coastal communities.