The Mourning Dove

Common Name: Mourning Dove

Scientific Name: Zenaida macroura

Habitat: Primarily a bird of open country, scattered trees, and woodland edges, but large numbers roost in woodlots during winter. Feeds on ground in grasslands, agricultural fields, backyards, and roadsides.

Range: The Mourning Dove travels between Central and North America.

Interesting Fact: During the breeding season, you might see three Mourning Doves flying in tight formation, one after another. This is a form of social display. Typically the bird in the lead is the male of a mated pair. The second bird is an unmated male chasing his rival from the area where he hopes to nest. The third is the female of the mated pair, which seems to go along for the ride.

Source: Cornell, University (2009). Mourning Dove. Retrieved April 17, 2009, from All About Birds Web site: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Mourning_Dove/id