Mya BambrickDoves in Kansas are more diverse than you might think. They are not the same as pigeons, although they belong to the same family. I researched the four most common types of doves and pigeons that live in Kansas, and I’m excited to share my findings with you.
In this article, you will learn about their appearance, habits, and personality. You will discover why the Mourning Dove is the state bird of Kansas, and how the Rock Pigeon adapts to urban life.
Key Takeaways:
- Several species of doves and pigeons reside in Kansas.
- The Mourning Dove is not only a common sight but also the state bird of Kansas.
- Rock Pigeons are highly adaptable and thrive in urban environments.
- The Eurasian collared dove is an invasive species with a notable impact on the local ecosystem.
- The White-Winged Dove, native to the southwestern United States, can also be found in certain areas of Kansas.
But wait, there’s more! We’ll also introduce you to the Eurasian Collared-Dove, an invasive species that has made its presence known in Kansas, as well as the White-Winged Dove, a native of the southwestern United States that can be spotted in certain areas of the state. With pictures to assist you, you’ll become an expert at identifying these birds in no time.
So, are you ready to unravel the mysteries of doves and pigeons? Let’s embark on this avian adventure together!
1. Mourning Dove (Kansas State Bird)
Found throughout the state of Kansas, the Mourning Dove is not only a common sight but also the official state bird. Known for its distinctive call and graceful flight, this bird holds a special place in Kansas wildlife.
The Mourning Dove can be easily identified by its slender build, long pointed tail, and soft grayish-brown feathers. With a length of approximately 9-13 inches and a wingspan of up to 18 inches, it is one of the smaller dove species.
This gentle bird is primarily herbivorous, feeding on seeds, grains, and fruits. Its habitat preferences include open areas, grasslands, farmlands, and woodlands, providing ample food sources and suitable nesting sites.
During courtship, the male Mourning Dove performs an elaborate flight display, accompanied by cooing sounds to attract a mate. Once paired, the female builds a flimsy nest made of twigs and grass, typically in trees, shrubs, or even on the ground.
The table below highlights the key features of the Mourning Dove.
| Species | Physical Description | Habitat | Typical Diet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Slender build, long pointed tail, soft grayish-brown feathers | Open areas, grasslands, farmlands, woodlands | Seeds, grains, fruits |
2. Rock Pigeon
The Rock Pigeon is a familiar sight in urban areas across Kansas. Also known as the common pigeon or city pigeon, it is a species that has adapted well to human environments. These birds are often found in parks, plazas, and buildings, creating nests on ledges, rooftops, and other structures.
Rock Pigeons are medium-sized birds, measuring about 11-15 inches in length and weighing around 9-13 ounces. They have a stout body, short neck, and small head. Their plumage is typically gray with iridescent feathers that reflect hues of purples, greens, and blues in the sunlight. Some individuals may exhibit variations in color, such as white patches on their wings or bodies.
These pigeons are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of conditions. They have a wide diet, feeding on seeds, grains, fruits, and insects. Their ability to find food in urban environments allows them to survive and even flourish in cities and towns.
Rock Pigeons are social birds, often seen in flocks or pairs. They communicate through a range of vocalizations, including cooing sounds and series of short, soft notes. These calls serve various purposes, such as attracting mates or warning other pigeons of potential danger.
Here is a picture of the Rock Pigeon:
While they can sometimes be considered a nuisance due to their droppings and noise, Rock Pigeons are an integral part of the urban ecosystem and have a fascinating history intertwined with human civilization.
| Characteristics | Behaviors | Adaptability | Color Variations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medium-sized (11-15 inches) | Highly social | Thrives in urban environments | Variations of gray with iridescent feathers |
| Stout body, short neck, small head | Feeds on seeds, grains, fruits, and insects | Builds nests on ledges and rooftops | Some individuals may have white patches on wings or body |
3. Eurasian Collared-Dove
The Eurasian Collared-Dove, an invasive species from Europe, has successfully established itself in Kansas. This dove species was introduced to the United States in the 1980s and has since spread rapidly across the country, including the state of Kansas.
The Eurasian Collared-Doves in kansas is known for its distinct appearance, with a pale gray body, black collar-like band around its neck, and white outer tail feathers. It is slightly larger than the Mourning Dove, which is a native species in Kansas.
This invasive dove species has adapted well to urban, suburban, and agricultural landscapes, making it a common sight throughout the state. Its population expansion has had both positive and negative impacts on the local ecosystem.
On one hand, the Eurasian Collared-Dove contributes to Kansas’ birdwatching appeal, attracting enthusiasts with its unique characteristics. Its presence provides opportunities for birdwatchers to observe and document a non-native species that has successfully integrated into the local bird community.
However, the rapid increase in Eurasian Collared-Dove populations has raised concerns about their potential impact on native bird species and their habitats. The invasive doves can outcompete other species for limited resources, potentially disrupting the balance of the ecosystem.
Experts suggest that monitoring and managing the Eurasian Collared-Dove population is necessary to ensure the long-term conservation of native bird species in Kansas. Understanding their behavior, distribution, and ecological impact is crucial for effective management strategies.
Picture of Eurasian Collared-Dove:
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4. White-Winged Dove
If you’re an avid bird-watcher in Kansas, keep an eye out for the beautiful White-Winged Dove. Although native to the southwestern United States, this dove species can also be spotted in certain areas of Kansas. With its distinct features and behaviors, the White-Winged Dove is truly a sight to behold.
Characterized by its elegant white wing patches, the White-Winged Dove stands out among other doves species in Kansas. Its body is a soft gray-brown color, and it has a long, tapered tail. The male and female White-Winged Doves look similar, making it slightly challenging to differentiate between the sexes.
When it comes to bird-watching in Kansas, listening closely to their calls can aid in identifying the White-Winged Dove. Their call is often described as a series of soft cooing notes that gradually increase in volume and then fade away. This unique vocalization is a key characteristic of this species.
To increase your chances of spotting this beautiful dove in Kansas, visit areas with ample food sources such as grain fields, open woodlands, and towns with bird feeders. Keep your binoculars handy and listen for their distinctive call. The presence of the White-Winged Dove adds a touch of uniqueness to the diverse bird population in Kansas.
Also Read: Top 10 Scary Bird Species
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