Mourning Dove

The Mourning Dove is a slender, medium-sized bird with a long, pointed tail. Adults are grayish-brown above and buffy-tan below, with black spots on the wings and a small iridescent patch on the neck. They are known for their mournful 'coo-ah, coo, coo, coo' call.

Soft grayish-brown (buffy) base with a distinctive dark brown or blackish subterminal spot/band located on the outer vane. The edge of the feather shows a lighter, almost cream-colored margin.

Mostly pennaceous and interlocked for aerodynamic efficiency, transitioning to plumulaceous (downy) at the base near the calamus for insulation.

Velvety and soft to the touch, with a matte appearance. Doves have specialized feathers that produce a soft, quiet flight, though they are known for a distinctive whistling sound upon takeoff.

Distinguished by the soft taupe-gray coloration, the specific black spot on the outer vane, and the delicate cream-colored edging typical of Columbidae flight feathers.

Open and semi-open habitats including agricultural fields, grasslands, parklands, suburbs, and lightly wooded areas. They avoid deep, unbroken forests.

Abundant across North America, from Southern Canada through the United States to Central America. Northern populations are migratory, while southern populations are year-round residents.

Primary seed eaters, playing a role in seed dispersal. They serve as a vital food source for raptors like Cooper's Hawks and Falcons.

Eurasian Collared-Dove (tends to be grayer and larger), White-winged Dove (has a bold white wing patch), and Rock Pigeon (much larger feathers with different color patterns).

Mourning Doves can fly at speeds up to 55 mph. They are also known for their 'pigeon milk,' a nutrient-rich secretion from the crop used to feed their young (squabs).

Good condition. The barbs are mostly intact though there is slight fraying at the tip and trailing edge, suggesting it may be a naturally molted feather.