Mourning Dove

Zenaida macroura

Family:

Pigeons and Doves

Size:

Medium

Visits:

Throughout the Year

Behavior:

Ground Feeders

Mourning Dove Facts

The dirge-like ooo-Ah, coo, coo, coo of the mourning dove has to be one of the most familiar birdcalls in the continental United States. These small-headed, long-tailed doves are common sights in backyards and urban parks, often seen pecking at the ground for seeds.

Size:

12" Long

Markings:

Male and female mourning doves are tan and gray from head to tail, with black spots on their wings. They have prominent black eyes on small heads and small, dark beaks. Juveniles are slightly more mottled and brown than adults.

Habitat:

Prefer open spaces, urban areas, fields, and the like, and are not found in deep forests.

Behavior:

Mourning doves spend a good deal of time feeding on the ground, and are otherwise found perched on tree branches or overhead wires. Known to nest in windowsills, roof gutters, and the eaves of houses, mourning doves (and their recognizable coo) are regular features of most suburban and urban backyards.

Diet:

Primarily seeds. Sometimes, small snails.

Vocals:

The mourning dove’s song is a soft, plaintive ooo-Ah, coo, coo, coo.