[4] The white-headed pigeon was originally classified as C. norfolciensis, but the 1953 discovery of an 18th century painting indicated that the description was likely for a different bird on Norfolk Island, perhaps the Pacific emerald dove (Chalcophaps longirostris).

The pigeon's habitat is from Cooktown, Queensland to southern New South Wales, with increasing numbers now found in eastern Victoria.

It can commonly be found in tropical regions, subtropical rainforest, scrub, watercourses and street trees.

The white-headed pigeon's nest generally consists of scanty twigs and is usually placed high in canopy up to 18 metres.

This bird's diet consists of fruits and seeds, with its favourite food being the invasive camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora).

White-headed pigeons will consume buds, flowers, leaves, and ripe and unripe fruits of the camphor laurel year-round.

[citation needed] Due to its large range, and an increasing population, the white-headed pigeon is considered a least-concern species.