Timor Imperial Pigeon
Ducula cineracea

Justification
This pigeon qualifies as Vulnerable because it is inferred to have a small population in its small range (four recent localities only), that is suffering severe habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation, such that continuing population declines may be inferred.

 

Range Map for Timor Imperial-pigeon

Threats
The mountains of East Timor were heavily deforested early in the 20th century, but habitat destruction has recently accelerated: an estimated 50% decline in remaining forest-cover occurred during Indonesian rule (1975-1999). Monsoon-forests now only cover an estimated 4% of West Timor , scattered around seven unprotected patches that are continually declining in size due to intensive grazing and burning. In addition, pigeons are apparently hunted extensively in East and West Timor , a factor that has presumably contributed to the decline of this species.

Conservation
A protected area is currently being established that will encompass Gunung Mutis, and potentially Gunung Timau. Several other montane protected areas are proposed for West Timor and Wetar, although it is not known if these areas support the species.

Targets
*Conduct surveys in remaining montane and monsoon-forest to establish the current distribution and population status of the species, its habitat requirements and altitudinal preferences, in order to develop an effective strategy for its conservation. *Propose key sites for establishment as strict protected areas. *Support the gazettement of protected areas at Gunung Mutis (including Gunung Timau) in West Timor and Gunung Arnau on Wetar, and implementation of management activities therein.

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