Mourning Dove
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Columbiformes, Family: Columbidae, Genus: Zenaida, Species: Zenaida macroura · Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves) · Tail feather (Rectrix), likely from the lateral or outer position of the tail.
Species
Zenaida macroura
Feather Type
Tail feather (Rectrix), likely from the lateral or outer position of the tail.
Family
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
Shape
Slightly asymmetrical with a rounded, broad tip; the outer vane is narrower than the inner vane. The overall shape is spatulate to elongated.
Size
Approximately 4 to 5 inches (10-13 cm) in length. This is consistent with the mid-to-outer rectrices of an adult Mourning Dove.
Rarity
Very Common. One of the most widespread and abundant birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
A smooth gradient of mousy brownish-grey (taupe) at the base, darkening significantly towards the middle, with a distinct white or light-grey terminal band or tip characteristic of the outer tail feathers.
Barb Structure
Mostly pennaceous and tightly interlocked at the distal end for flight stability, transitioning to a loose, plumulaceous (downy) structure at the base near the calamus.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, silky, and somewhat matte. The pennaceous part of the vane feels firm but flexible, typical of birds that require quick, agile takeoff.
Description
This feather belongs to the Mourning Dove, a slender, medium-sized bird known for its mournful cooing and whistling wingbeats. The bird features a long, pointed tail highlighted by white outer feathers—precisely like the specimen pictured.
Key Features
The distinctive brownish-grey coloration with the white outer tip and the specific rounded, slightly asymmetrical shape point directly to a Columbidae tail feather.
Habitat
Found in a variety of open and semi-open habitats including grasslands, farms, orchards, urban backyards, and light woodlands.
Geographic Range
Abundant across North America, from southern Canada into Central America. Northern populations are migratory; southern populations are year-round residents.
Condition Notes
The feather appears to be in Good condition. Some slight separation of the barbs (zipper effect) is visible on the left side, which is natural wear from preening or molting.
Interesting Facts
Mourning Doves can fly at speeds up to 55 mph. Their wings produce a unique high-pitched whistling sound during takeoff and landing as a form of non-vocal communication.
Ecological Role
Primary seed eaters (granivores), playing a vital role in seed dispersal. They are a significant prey species for hawks, falcons, and owls.
Similar Species
White-winged Dove feathers have much larger, bolder white patches; Eurasian Collared-Dove feathers are generally paler grey with less distinct darkening before the white tip.