Justification
This species is categorized as Vulnerable given estimates of a small population inferred to be rapidly declining through hunting. It is particularly easy to hunt as it is, or at least it was, tame³ and curious, often gregarious⁸, and flushed birds are easy to shoot from their low perches². However, there are few quantitative data and new information may lead to reclassification.

Threats
It is prized by hunters for meat and, to a lesser extent, for its feathers³. Nestlings are also taken to be reared for food⁴. Around populated areas, it has been hunted to local extirpation or survives only in forests many hours or days walk away from the nearest village^1,3,8. It has become extirpated from the vicinity of some transmigration settlements in Papua where it had survived constant hunting from indigenous people⁸. Lowland forests, particularly on the flat terrain favored by this species, are threatened by logging, and logging roads open up access to hunters^5,7,8. Capture for trade may also be significant⁸.

Conservation
CITES Appendix II. There is a captive-breeding programme in some zoos⁸. Education and research programmes are planned in Papua New Guinea⁸. It is protected by law in Papua New Guinea .

Targets
*Survey suitable habitat between Astrolabe Bay and Collingwood Bay . *Determine populations in study areas such as the Wapoga River . *Assess hunting levels through discussion with local hunters. *Investigate population trends through discussion with local hunters. *Ascertain tolerance of logged forest. *Monitor numbers traded. *Establish more wildlife protected areas in lowlands. *Enforce protection in uninhabited reserve areas. *Launch public awareness programmes to reduce hunting. *Utilise as a flagship species in ecotourism ventures.