Mourning Dove
The Mourning Dove (*Zenaida macroura*) is a common North American dove in the pigeon and dove family, Columbidae.
The Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) is a common North American dove in the pigeon and dove family, Columbidae. It is a slender, long-tailed bird known for its soft, sorrow-like cooing call, rapid flight, and widespread presence from southern Canada to Central America. It is listed as Least Concern and is also a game bird in parts of its range.
Description
Mourning Doves are medium-sized, slender birds with long tapered tails, small heads, and gray-brown plumage. Field guides note their black spot below the eye and white tips on the tail feathers.
Range and habitat
The species occurs across much of North America, from southern Canada through the United States into Mexico and parts of Central America. It is associated with open or semi-open habitats such as fields, roadsides, towns, and suburban areas.
Behaviour and diet
Mourning Doves mainly eat seeds and forage on the ground, often in flocks or pairs. Their flight is fast and direct, and their wings can make a whistling sound when they take off.
Breeding and life cycle
The species breeds repeatedly during the season and both parents help care for the young. National Geographic notes that pairs may raise several broods in a year, reflecting high juvenile mortality.
Conservation and human use
The Mourning Dove is assessed as Least Concern because of its large range and abundant population. It is also one of the most frequently hunted bird species in North America.
Key facts
- The Mourning Dove is one of the most common and widespread birds in North America.
- It has a slim body, small head, long pointed tail, and muted brownish-gray plumage.
- Its call is a soft, drawn-out coo that gives the bird its name.
- It feeds mainly on seeds and forages on the ground.
- The species can migrate, with northern populations moving south in winter.
The Mourning Dove breeds in southern Canada and is familiar to Canadian birdwatchers, especially in open country and urban edge habitats.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Mourning Dove?
Why is it called a Mourning Dove?
Where do Mourning Doves live?
What do Mourning Doves eat?
Are Mourning Doves migratory?
Is the Mourning Dove endangered?
References
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology — https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Mourning_Dove/overviewSupports: Scientific name, family, order, general description, behaviour, vocalization, and feeding habits.
- National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/facts/mourning-doveSupports: Range, size, conservation status, lifespan, appearance, and breeding notes.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/mourning-doveSupports: Taxonomy, typical lifespan, migratory behaviour, and general species description.
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission — https://www.ncwildlife.gov/media/1867/openSupports: Range, status as a game bird, and alternate common names.
- Minnesota Department of Natural Resources — https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/birds/mourningdove.htmlSupports: Description, nesting, diet, call, and seasonal movement.