MOURNING DOVE

                                                  


Description

The Mourning Dove is a medium-sized, slender dove approximately  12 in. in length. The elliptical wings are broad, and the head is rounded.  Mourning Doves have perching feet, with three toes forward and one reversed. The legs are short and reddish colored. The beak is short and dark, usually a brown-black hue.

The plumage is generally light gray-brown and lighter and pinkish below. The wings have black spotting, and the outer tail feathers are white, contrasting with the black inners. Below the eye is a distinctive crescent-shaped area of dark feathers. The eyes are dark, with light skin surrounding them. The adult male has bright purple-pink patches on the neck sides, with light pink coloring reaching the breast. Females are similar in appearance, but with more gray coloring. Juvenile birds have a scaly appearance, and are generally darker.

This species' call is a distinctive, plaintive cooOOoo-woo-woo-woooo. In flight, the wings make a fluttery whistling sound.

Reproduction

Mourning Doves are prolific breeders. In warmer areas, these birds may raise up to six broods in a season.This fast breeding is essential for the survival of the species as mortality is high. Each year, mortality can reach 58% a year for adults and 69% for the young.

The Mourning Dove is monogamous and forms strong pair bonds.  Pairs typically reconvene in the same area the following breeding season, or sometimes may remain together throughout the winter. However, lone doves will find new partners if necessary.



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Julie Nellis, ABR, ASR, GRI, e-Pro
Associate Broker
Long Realty
1890 E. River Rd
Tucson, AZ 85718
520-918-3843