The Papuan mountain pigeon is a very social species, occurring in flocks that usually contain 10 to

40 birds and can sometimes number up to 80 individuals. It is also less common to see it alone or in
pairs. Individuals typically roost at high elevations, then descend to lower elevations in groups in the
morning. In doing so, they can drop hundreds of meters in a single dive, producing a loud blowing
noise that is distinctive of Gymnophaps pigeons. Leaving the roost, the flocks fly just above the
treetops, but begin to fly higher as they cross the lowlands, sometimes flying high enough to be
barely visible to the naked eye.[6][9] ]

Diet

A pigeon with grayish upperparts in front of a bowl of fruit

Feeding the Papuan Mountain Pigeon

The Papuan mountain pigeon is frugivorous and feeds on fruits such as figs and drupes of
Planchonella, Ascarina philippinensis and Cryptocarpa tessalata.[6] It has also been observed
feeding on the fruits of Elmerrillia tsimapaca and may be an important seed disperser for this
species.[10] The species prefers fruits with larger seeds, with Lauraceae forming an important part
of its diet, and will fly long distances during the fruiting seasons of particular plants.[11] Foraging
occurs in the canopy, and the species has been observed drinking from roadside puddles.[6][9] It
has also been observed eating dirt.[12]

Reproduction

From July to December, as well as in April, male Gentoo mountain pigeons have been observed
performing demonstration flights. One or two males pair up with a female from an open perch
overlooking a steep drop, after which a male launches and dives before suddenly rising 25–30 m
(82–98 ft) above the canopy of the forest with rapid wing beats. The male then stops at the top of
this ascent and descends before returning to his perch. This is repeated periodically, with the two
males taking turns to show off to the female. The display was only recorded in the early morning and
late afternoon.[6]

The Papuan mountain pigeon breeds from October to March in the Schrader Range, but a juvenile
and an adult male with enlarged testicles were collected in June elsewhere, suggesting that the
species can breed throughout the year throughout its range. Nesting is thought to be partially
colonial. At the start of the rainy season, the species nests in low, sheltered areas, but nests in
higher, more exposed areas towards the end. The nest is usually a platform of sticks and twigs built
on a small tree at a height of 3.7–5 m (12–16 ft), but may be placed higher. A ground nest built in a
depression of short, dry grass has also been observed above the treeline. It lays a single white egg.
[6][9][13]