They are best identified in the field by their large size, dark colours and the distinctive checkerboard pattern on their nape.

[11][12] Nilgiri wood pigeons are usually seen singly, in pairs or in small groups, feeding almost entirely in the trees but sometimes descending to the ground to forage on fallen fruits.

[3] The breeding season is March to July during which time they make a flimsy platform of twigs and lay a single white egg which is usually visible from below the nest.

[4] They feed on large fruit and may play an important role in dispersal of the seeds of many forest trees.

[13] Fruit of the family Lauraceae are particularly favoured and most of their food is gathered by gleaning on the outer twigs of the middle and upper canopy.