Royal 'Victoria Crown Pigeon' Is the World's Biggest and Most Attractive Pigeon (Photo Gallery)

Over 300 species of pigeons and doves on the globe, some of them are unexpectedly beautiful. When compared to other pigeon species, the Victoria crowned pigeon (Goura Victoria) is the most intriguing. Strikingly beautiful and intelligent, the Victoria crowned pigeon is a fascinating ground bird to watch. This gorgeous bird may be regarded as the supermodel of the pigeon world, with a beautiful crest of feathers on its head.

Are Victoria crowned pigeons endangered? These magnificent birds are steadily losing habitat owing to deforestation, and they are also being hunted for their feathers and meat. Owing to overhunting they are rarely encountered in inhabited areas. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, they are presently classified as "Near Threatened." The Victoria crowned pigeon is a huge bird with a beautiful feather crest.