In Australia, it inhabits almost exclusively the lowland tropical rain forests along the eastern coast, from central New South Wales to the tip of Cape York Peninsula. Abundancy of the birds increase in a northerly direction.

The dove measure up to 18 inches in length, but it is larger in southern regions. It has purple plumage around its neck, chest, and upper belly. Its lower belly is yellow and has a green underparts. The sexes look similar, and the juveniles have a duller and greener plumage compared to adults. Notwithstanding their bright plumage, they are hard to see amongst the forest canopy.

The birds feed off fruit-bearing trees in rain forests such as figs. They can eat large fruits whole and are able to acrobatically collect fruit off trees and vines. They do not like to travel long distances, preferring to stay in their local area and make use of whatever fruits are in season.