Pronunciation: [ɡˈɜːɹə] (IPA) 
The word "Goura" is usually pronounced as "ɡʊərə". In this phonetic transcription, the "ɡ" refers to the sound of the letter "g", while the "ʊ" represents the "oo" sound, as in "book". The "ə" symbol stands for the "uh" sound, which is a neutral vowel sound. The spelling of "Goura" reflects the pronunciation of this word, which is used to refer to a genus of large, ground-dwelling pigeons found in Southeast Asia and Australia.
Goura is a noun that primarily refers to a genus of large, ground-dwelling pigeons native to the islands of New Guinea and Australia. It is a taxonomic genus that belongs to the family Columbidae. The most commonly known species in this genus is the Victoria crowned pigeon (Goura victoria), which is highly recognized for its striking appearance, featuring a bluish-gray plumage with an intricate and ornate crest adorned on top of its head.
These birds typically inhabit dense rainforests and lowland areas, where they can be found foraging on the forest floor for seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates. Gouras are generally monogamous and tend to form long-lasting pair bonds. They are known for their gentle demeanor and cautious nature, often seeking shelter and camouflage in the foliage of trees when feeling threatened.
The term "Goura" can also be used to describe any species within the Goura genus as a whole, encompassing other notable species such as the western crowned pigeon (Goura cristata) and the southern crowned pigeon (Goura scheepmakeri). These pigeons are highly sought after by bird enthusiasts and often kept in captivity due to their beautiful plumage and unique characteristics. However, they are also facing threats in the wild, specifically due to habitat loss and hunting, making conservation efforts crucial for their survival.
