mourning dove
1. Bird Name
The English name of the bird is the Mourning Dove, also known as the Turtle Dove or the Rain Dove. Its scientific name is Zenaida macroura.
2. Appearance
The Mourning Dove is a medium-sized bird, subtle in color. A light grayish-blue to grayish-brown plumage covers most of its body with pinkish hues on the chest. The underside of the wings and tail often display shades of black, gray and white. A distinguishing characteristic is the long, pointed tail with wide white edges. The bird has soft blue-gray feathers, a small head, and a sharp-pointed beak. Its eyes are enveloped by a soft blue skin and contain a dark round pupil, surrounded by a light-colored iris. There is no significant difference in appearance between males and females, though males are slightly more colorful.
3. Size
The average length of an adult Mourning Dove measures around 24-34 cm (9.1-13.4 in), with a wingspan ranging from 17.7 to 18 inches. Depending on the bird’s geographical location and stage of life, they typically weigh 3.4 – 6.2 ounces.
4. Habitat & Distribution
This bird species is widespread and among the most abundant in North America, spanning from Canada to Mexico. Furthermore, Mourning Doves can also be found in the Caribbean, Central America, and the Greater Antilles. They thrive in a variety of open and semi-open environments, from urban to suburban areas, farmlands, prairies, and lightly wooded areas.
5. Interesting Facts
One interesting fact about Mourning Doves is their ability to drink water without lifting their head, unlike most birds. This trait helps them stay vigilant against possible predators while drinking. Moreover, they have a strong homing instinct, which allows displaced birds to find their way back to their original location.
6. Diet
Primarily seed-eaters, Mourning Doves consume a variety of seeds, grains, and occasional invertebrates. On rare occasions, they may consume small insects and snails. They can eat up to 20% of their body weight in one feeding session!
7. Behavior & Sounds
Mourning Doves are known for their somber, mournful cooing, a sound that has given them their name. They have a swift and straight flight pattern, often accompanied by the whistling sound produced by their wings. They produce soft-cooing calls that are distinctly recognizable, including a repeated coo-OO-oo call.
8. Conservation Status
Mourning Doves enjoy a classification of “Least Concern” according to the IUCN Red List due to their wide distribution and high population numbers.
9. Lifespan
In the wild, Mourning Doves typically live for about 1.5 years, although some have been known to live up to 5 years. The oldest recorded Mourning Dove lived to be 31 years old in captivity.
10. Additional Notes
Locally, the Mourning Dove is often referred to as Turtle Dove. They frequently come in close contact with human habitation and adapt well to man-made environments. Their roles in ecosystems are variable; they’re efficient seed spreaders and serve as a primary game bird, helping control the overpopulation. Also, they play a role in the food chain serving as prey for various predatory birds and animals. They thus help maintain the natural balance within their ecosystems.
