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 outer tail position (R5 or R6)
Species
Zenaida macroura
Feather Type
Tail feather (Rectrix), likely from the outer tail position (R5 or R6)
Family
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
Shape
Elongated and tapered with a rounded apex; asymmetrical vane indicative of an outer tail feather where one side is narrower to aid aerodynamics.
Size
Estimated at 5.5 to 6.5 inches (14-17 cm) in length. This is consistent with the elongated outer tail feathers of a Zenaida macroura, which form its characteristic pointed tail.
Rarity
Very Common. One of the most abundant and widespread land birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Large terminal white band at the tip, transitioning into a dark charcoal-gray or blackish mid-section. The base transitions into a lighter brownish-gray. The ventral side is slightly paler with a matte finish.
Barb Structure
Lower portion is plumulaceous (downy) for insulation, while the upper two-thirds are pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs (hooklets/barbicels) for flight stability.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and stiff in the pennaceous section; soft and silky in the plumulaceous base. The surface has a slight matte bloom common to doves, which produces 'feather dust'.
Description
This feather belongs to the Mourning Dove, a graceful, slender-tailed bird known for its mournful 'coo-oo' call. The bird is generally grayish-brown with black spots on the wings. In flight, the white tips of the outer tail feathers flash conspicuously, which is exactly what this specimen represents.
Key Features
The distinctive white terminal band on a dark charcoal vane is a primary diagnostic mark for Columbidae, and the specific narrow, elongated shape identifies it as a Mourning Dove rather than a bulkier pigeon.
Habitat
Found in a variety of open and semi-open habitats including grasslands, farms, suburbs, and lightly wooded areas. They avoid deep, unbroken forests.
Geographic Range
Year-round resident across most of North America, from southern Canada to central Mexico. Northernmost populations migrate south for the winter.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant separation and fraying of the barbs in the lower pennaceous region, possibly due to 'zip' failure or post-mortem wear after being dropped on the ground.
Interesting Facts
Mourning Doves are one of the fastest flyers, capable of reaching speeds up to 55 mph. They are also known for producing a unique 'whistling' sound with their wings during takeoff to alert others of potential danger.
Ecological Role
Primarily granivorous (seed-eaters), they play a role in seed dispersal. They are a vital prey species for many raptors, including Cooper's Hawks and Falcons.
Similar Species
White-winged Dove (has a much larger white patch on the wing, but tail feathers are more squared); Eurasian Collared-Dove (similar tail pattern but feathers are broader/grayer).