These birds are very elegant with their feathered crests on their heads. A popular staple during the early years of Western invasion, these birds were killed in great numbers. They are not threatened, although the clear felling of the bush has decreased their food sources. They are nomadic, following the fruiting seasons of different plants which now include introduced ones.
These pigeons generally feed in large flocks – a Dreaming accounts for this. Topknot Pigeon, instead of hunting, would only ‘play’. He spent many days creating a kangaroo from tree sap, which he finally brought home as his hunting effort. As a result of his lack of responsibility, he was transformed into a Topknot Pigeon; and this is why today they must always hunt in groups – to ensure the job gets done! If Top-knot was allowed to forage for food alone, it just wouldn’t get done! And if you see one of these attractive birds alone, where have you gone off on a tangent? Are you avoiding responsibility and playing too much? These birds are more often seen in company, so a solitary bird is irregular (though not unusual.)
Top-knot Pigeon highlights the balance between work and play; the basics of life and sustenance versus leisure and creativity. Is it time to get out, join others and do some work? In groups, Top-knot Pigeons highlight co-operation in community. These birds are putting into action the concepts of support, supervision and group endeavour. Negatively, this could be seen in the conflict between work and leisure.
Title