Mourning Dove
Image: Diego Balbuena (cc-by-nc)
NameMourning Dove
Common NameMourning Dove
Scientific NameZenaida macroura
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)41
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)120
Plumage DetailsGenerally grayish-brown on the back and wings, with a lighter, buffy underside. Black spots are present on the wings, and the long, pointed tail features white outer tail feathers that are prominent in flight. Males may exhibit a bluish crown and a pinkish wash on the neck.
Vocalization / CallA soft, mournful cooing sound, often transcribed as "OoAAH-coo-coo-coo." They also produce a distinctive whistling sound with their wings when taking flight.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodlands, forest edges, grasslands, farmlands, suburban areas, deserts
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, extending into Central America and the Caribbean. Found throughout the contiguous United States, southern Canada, and Mexico, with some northern populations migrating south for winter.
Identifying Featuresslender body, small head, long, tapered tail, mournful cooing call, black spots on wings, white outer tail feathers (visible in flight)
Description
The Mourning Dove is a common and widespread North American bird, recognized by its slender body, small head, and long, tapered tail. It is known for its distinctive mournful cooing call and is frequently seen foraging for seeds on the ground or perched on wires and branches.
