Mourning Dove Photos and Videos
Adult
Gray above with large black spots on the wing coverts and pale peach-colored below, with a long, thin tail. Note the thin, black bill and pinkish legs.
© Ryan Schain / Macaulay LibraryMassachusetts, April 08, 2014
Adult
In flight shows a long, fan-shaped tail with large white tips. Its wings make a distinctive high-pitched whistle in flight.
© Nancy Christensen / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, March 11, 2017
Adult
Characteristic "mourning" call is made by puffing up the throat but without opening the bill.
© Larry Arbanas / Macaulay LibraryTexas, April 20, 2008
Adult
Shows a black mark on the side of the neck that can be hidden, depending on the angle.
© Tyler Ficker / Macaulay LibraryOhio, March 05, 2017
Adult
Note small, round head, straight, thin bill, and long, pointed tail with white edge. Often found in backyards and neighborhoods.
© Eric Liner / Macaulay LibraryNew York, May 01, 2006
Adult
Constructs small, flimsy nests in a variety of trees and bushes.
© Jay McGowan / Macaulay LibraryNew York, May 15, 2015
Adult
Often occurs in flocks, sometimes quite large, and perches prominently in a variety of habitats.
© Lewis Ulrey / Macaulay LibraryIdaho, November 05, 2015
Compare with Similar Species
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The Four Keys to ID
Plump-bodied and long-tailed, with short legs, small bill, and a head that looks particularly small in comparison to the body. The long, pointed tail is unique among North American doves.
Relative Size
Smaller, slenderer than Rock Pigeon
robin-sizedMeasurements
- Male
- Length: 9.1-13.4 in (23-34 cm)
- Weight: 3.4-6.0 oz (96-170 g)
- Wingspan: 17.7 in (45 cm)
- Female
- Color Pattern
- Behavior
- Habitat
