When seen clambering about in a tree, the immediate impression is of a green, parrot-like bird. At closer range, this species is unmistakable with its green, grey and yellow plumage and chestnut vent. When feeding, it climbs about in fruiting trees, sometimes hanging upside-down on branches to obtain fruit.
Juvenile has olive-tellow shoulder patches.
Forests, bushveld, savanna; always associated with fruiting trees, especially figs.
Unlike that of any other pigeon in the region: a series of liquid whistles, 'thweeeloo, tleeeoo'.