The Mourning Dove, or Zenaida macroura, is a bird common throughout much of North America. Its name comes from its drab, grey colors and sad song. This largish bird is usually around a foot long and eats seeds by pecking at the ground. It likes to travel in small flocks.



It´s call, an ooooOOOOoooo, ooo oooo, is a soft cooing noise that some birders sometimes think is an owl.

We call them ´stealth doves´ in our yard. Many times you can look out, not see any birds, and then suddenly realize there are a bunch of mourning doves lurking in the grass.



Many Photos and Pictures of Mourning Doves
Mourning Dove Flock Photos

The Dove as a Wedding Tradition
Racing Pigeon Band Identification

Birding Encyclopedia


Dove Print from Art.com

Photos by Lisa Shea