Mourning Dove

Scientific Name: Zenaida macroura

Classification: Order: Columbiformes; Family: Columbidae

A medium-sized, slender dove with a long, tapered tail. Known for its mournful cooing sound and whistling wings during takeoff.

Region of Origin: North America, ranging from southern Canada through Central America.
Typical Sighting Period: Year-round in most of its range; seen more frequently in spring and summer in northern regions.
Plumage Details: Overall light grey-brown with a pinkish hue on the chest. Black spots on the wings and a single black spot behind the eye. Long, pointed tail with white outer feathers. Juveniles have a scaly appearance.
Ecological Significance: Important seed disperser and a primary prey species for many birds of prey.
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN); population is stable and abundant.
Observation Tips: Commonly seen on ground foraging for seeds or perched on telephone wires. Listen for the distinct whirring sound of their wings when they fly.

Length: 23-34 cm; Wingspan: 37-45 cm; Weight: 96-170 g.

Almost exclusively seeds (99%), including grains, grasses, and weeds. Forages primarily on the ground.

Open and semi-open habitats including grasslands, farms, suburbs, and lightly wooded areas.

Partial migrant. Southern populations are resident; northern populations migrate to the southern US or Mexico.

A soft, mournful 'coo-OO-oo-oo-oo'. Often mistaken for the hooting of an owl.

Builds a flimsy platform of twigs in trees or shrubs. Usually lays two white eggs. May produce multiple broods per year.

Small head, long pointed tail, black spots on wings, and a thin black spot under the ear.

White-winged Dove (has white wing patches), Eurasian Collared-Dove (larger with a black neck ring).

Mourning Doves can drink brackish water without becoming dehydrated. They are one of the most widespread and abundant birds in North America.