Dark-tailed Laurel Pigeon
Columba bollii

Range and population
Columba bollii inhabits closed-canopy laurel forest. It has an estimated population of 2,200 individuals on the Canary Islands , Spain . Birds are found on Tenerife (at least 350-400 birds, particularly at Anaga and Los Silos), La Palma (250-300 in a restricted area of the north-west), La Gomera (over 1,000 in Garajonay National Park with some birds outside the park) and El Hierro (over 30). It may formerly have occurred on Gran Canaria as bones similar to those of a Laurel Pigeon have been found and there is a possible sight record from the late 19th century. Historical declines resulted from intensive exploitation of laurel forests. The extent of forest loss has slowed, although fragmentation has continued as forests are exploited for poles and tool handles. Illegal hunting occurs at drink sites. As it is a tree-nesting species, predation by rats is of less significance than for C. junoniae and is unlikely to cause significant declines¹. Despite these threats the population seems to be stable, although this requires confirmation. A European action plan was published in 1996.

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