Head feathers often differ between adult males and females, with males having a bluish tint to theirs and females having a pinkish hue; however, these patterns sometimes overlap. In addition to feather coloring, Mourning Doves can also be identified by their dark brown or black beak, their bright reddish-pink feet, and the light turquoise flesh around their eyes.
An adult Mourning Dove’s wingspan is around 45 cm. [5] X Research source
The Mourning Dove’s beak is tapered and sharp at the tip; its length is only about a third the depth of the bird’s head. The Mourning Dove has relatively short legs for its body size, even when fully extended.
The Mourning Dove’s pointed tail does not fan out during flight, landings, or while the bird is standing still. [10] X Trustworthy Source The Cornell Lab of Ornithology Research lab of Cornell University dedicated to interpreting and conserving the Earth’s biological diversity through research and education about birds Go to source
Mourning doves generally avoid very cold climates, which is why they are not likely to be found in extreme northern regions. Mourning doves are not likely to be found in extreme desert environments because there is nothing for them to eat there.
Mourning Doves are only found in Canada during the summer breeding season when temperatures are warmest. Conversely, they are found in Central America in greatest numbers during winter, when northern temperatures are colder; however, in their southernmost range many do not migrate north in the summer. [13] X Research source In the Rocky Mountain region of the U. S. , Mourning Dove occupation is limited to more southern latitudes than in other regions of the U. S.
Though they are not commonly found in dense urban areas (except for city parks and areas with lots of bare ground), Mourning Doves can often be seen perching on telephone wires and similar overhead structures. [16] X Trustworthy Source The Cornell Lab of Ornithology Research lab of Cornell University dedicated to interpreting and conserving the Earth’s biological diversity through research and education about birds Go to source
Mourning Dove nests can be found at various heights from the ground, ranging from the ground itself to high tree branches; they are not fond of dense tree canopies, however. Often, the loose construction of the Mourning Dove’s nest leaves gaps between twigs that are large enough that an observer can spot their eggs when the nest is viewed from below.
This is not likely to be a significant issue unless you are seeking Mourning Doves in extremely mountainous regions of Washington, California, or the Rocky Mountain states in the U. S.
This is the male Mourning Dove’s mating call; other, similar sounds can also be heard coming from these birds, such as their warning call and the female’s soft coo in response to a male’s call. These calls can most often be heard in the spring and summer seasons, during the Mourning Dove’s breeding period.
Immature Mourning Doves often join flocks before the end of the breeding season, but are not joined by adult birds until the migration season approaches. Mourning Doves sometimes feed in small groups during nesting periods.
The rapid beating of the Mourning Dove’s wings when it takes off produces a high-pitched whirring or whistling noise, which usually fades as the bird gains speed. [23] X Research source
Because these birds are so common throughout the U. S. , you are likely to see them in your own yard if you put up a bird seed feeder or spread seed on the ground.
