Mourning Dove
NameMourning Dove
Common NameMourning Dove
Scientific NameZenaida macroura
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)41
Length (cm)28.5
Weight (g)133
Plumage DetailsPlumage is generally light gray-brown on the back and wings, with a paler, often pinkish-buff underside. Black spots are visible on the wings, and a small black mark is present below the eye. Adults have a patch of iridescent pinkish-purple and green feathers on the sides of the neck, and a distinctive light blue eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallTheir most recognizable call is a soft, mournful cooing sound, often described as "OoAAH-coo-coo-coo." They also produce a distinctive whistling sound with their wings during takeoff and landing.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodlands, forest edges, farmlands, suburban areas, grasslands, deserts
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, extending into Central America and the Caribbean. They are migratory in the northern parts of their range, but resident in many southern areas.
Identifying Featuresslender body, small head, long pointed tail, gray-brown plumage, black spots on wings, blue eye-ring, mournful cooing call, whistling wing sound
Description
Mourning Doves are slender, medium-sized birds with small heads and long, pointed tails. They are often seen foraging on the ground for seeds or perched in pairs, known for their gentle, mournful cooing calls.
