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)133
Plumage DetailsGenerally grayish-brown on the back and wings, with lighter, often pinkish-buff underparts. They feature distinctive black spots on their wings and a small black spot below the eye. The long, pointed tail has white tips on the outer tail feathers.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, mournful cooing sound, often transcribed as 'OoAAH-cooo-cooo-cooo'. They also produce a whistling sound with their wings during takeoff and flight.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodlands, forest edges, grasslands, farmlands, suburban areas, urban parks
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout North America, extending into Central America and the Caribbean. They are migratory in the northern parts of their range, while resident in southern areas.
Identifying Featuresslender body, long pointed tail, mournful cooing call, black spots on wings, small black spot below eye, whistling sound during flight takeoff
Description
The Mourning Dove is a common and widespread North American bird, recognized by its slender body, long pointed tail, and soft, mournful cooing call. These adaptable birds are often seen foraging on the ground for seeds or perched on wires and branches in various habitats.
