5 rare Nicobar pigeons handed to Ho Chi Minh City national park for care

The pigeons were transferred from Con Dao Special Zone’s economic office after being voluntarily handed over by local residents.

The group includes four females and one male, each weighing between 190 and 250 grams, said Phan Thi Tim, deputy head of the economic office.

The birds were initially intended for release but showed signs of injury, prompting their transfer to the park for treatment and care.

Nguyen Thai Hau, deputy head of conservation and international cooperation at the park, said the birds will be released once they recover and can adapt to natural conditions.

Hau elaborated that releasing them will help boost population numbers, contributing to biodiversity conservation.

The voluntary handover also reflects growing community awareness about protecting wildlife.

“Con Dao National Park hopes this action will inspire more people to join efforts in conserving rare species. We remain ready to assist the public in handing over wild animals,” Hau said, calling on residents not to hunt, trade, or consume wildlife products.

The Nicobar pigeon (Caloenas nicobarica), native to Southeast Asia, is distinguished by its striking iridescent green plumage, a mane-like fringe of feathers around the neck, and a short white tail.

They live mainly in primary forests, mangroves, and on small islands but face serious population decline due to habitat loss and poaching.

The island of Con Dao is considered one of the species’ ideal habitats in Vietnam, where sightings of these birds have sparked excitement among nature photographers.