Mourning Dove (also known as Carolina Dove or Rain Crow)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Columbiformes, Family: Columbidae, Genus: Zenaida, Species: Z. macroura
Family: Columbidae (Doves and Pigeons)
- Shape
- Symmetrical vane with a gently rounded tip and elongated oval outline
- Size
- Approximately 4 to 5 inches long, consistent with a medium body or covert feather of a Mourning Dove
- Rarity
- Very Common
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Description
A graceful, medium-sized dove with a plump body, long pointed tail, and soft grey-brown plumage often highlighted with iridescent pinkish-bronze patches on the neck
Colour & Pattern
Uniform soft grey-brown with subtle slate-grey tones and a pale, off-white fringe along the edge
Barb Structure
Pennaceous vane with tightly interlocked barbs and barbules, lacking a prominent afterfeather
Texture & Surface
Smooth, soft texture with a matte finish, typical of a velvety dove body feather
Key Features
Soft grey-brown coloration, smooth tapered oval shape, and delicate slender rachis
Habitat
Open country, urban areas, farms, prairies, and open woodlands with scattered trees
Geographic Range
Widespread throughout North America, ranging from southern Canada through the United States and Mexico to parts of Central America
Ecological Role
Important seed disperser and a common prey species for various raptors and carnivorous mammals
Similar Species
Eurasian Collared-Dove, which features a squarer tail and paler grey coloration with a black neck ring
Interesting Facts
Mourning doves are known for their mournful cooing calls and can fly at speeds up to 55 mph when startled
Condition Notes
Good condition with intact barbs and minimal signs of wear or fading