Justification

As a large terrestrial species, this ground-dove is likely to have suffered from the effects of introduced mammals and hunting, and is inferred to have a tiny population. Although it may well be Extinct, it is retained as Critical until the known historical sites are re-surveyed. One of these, the tiny island of Ramos , is thought to be still largely forested and may remain free of predatory mammals.

Threats

On Makira, introduced rats, pigs, cats and dogs are widespread and thought to have caused the decline of this and other species. Most lowland forest has been logged or is in logging concessions, and the larger pigeons are targeted by local hunters. On Ramos, hunters from the adjacent islands of Santa Isabel and Malaita make regular journeys to harvest the nesting Nicobar Pigeon Caloenas nicobarica, and may shoot ground-doves on these expeditions^1,3,4.

Conservation

There have been some short surveys looking for this species on Makira^1,3,4,5.

Targets

*Survey the island of Ramos . *Survey the small satellite islands off Makira. *Survey the small areas of beach forest on Makira. *Search suitable caves for subfossil remains to determine previous distribution. *Discuss status with local hunters, aided by preparation of coloured paintings.