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Dove, Mourning
Dove, Mourning
Outwardly calm, the Mourning Dove is actually a nervous species related to the Pigeon. Somewhat camouflaged by its plumage, the Mourning Dove has two modes of defensive behavior: freeze and bolt.
Mourning Doves eat primarily seeds and feed mainly on the ground. Unlike most native songbirds, young Doves drink a softened diet from their parents' crops (neck pouches for holding food). Nestlings are covered with string-like down, and have rosy legs which turn darker red as they age. Doves typically nest in pine trees, and the nest consists of a few twigs that are loosely arranged.
This young bird was picked up in a yard and could not be returned to its parents. Happily, it was successfully rehabilitated and released.
Mourning Doves eat primarily seeds and feed mainly on the ground. Unlike most native songbirds, young Doves drink a softened diet from their parents' crops (neck pouches for holding food). Nestlings are covered with string-like down, and have rosy legs which turn darker red as they age. Doves typically nest in pine trees, and the nest consists of a few twigs that are loosely arranged.
This young bird was picked up in a yard and could not be returned to its parents. Happily, it was successfully rehabilitated and released.
- Mourning Dove, mid-nestling
Mourning Dove, mid-nestling.
- Late nestling Mourning Dove
Late nestling Mourning Dove.
- Fledgling Mourning Dove
Fledgling Mourning Dove.
- Juvenile Mourning Dove
Juvenile Mourning Dove.