The colorful Nicobar pigeon is the closest cousin of the Dodo.
Although the likeness between the two species is not immediately apparent, it is scientifically undeniable.
Apart from size, the Nicobar Pigeon’s vivid plumage sparkles with iridescent blues, greens, and coppers, finishing with a white tail and reddish legs.
The bird’s position on an isolated collection of tiny islands has resulted in this vivid display.
You may find them in India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As well as further east across the Malay Archipelago to the Solomons and Palau.
A bird that has no natural predators, thus they don’t need to hide, allowing them to acquire a gorgeous look.
Its actual population size is unclear. And due to the introduction of non-native predators such as rats and cats on these islands.
Thus, this exquisite pigeon is considered endangered.
Moreover, conservation activities that people developed – in order to help the birds thrive once more.
Scientists have established that the now-extinct dodo bird is related to pigeons and doves.
The sole saving grace is that the dodo still has relatives who live in the world today.
