Bar-shouldered Dove song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Bar-shouldered Dove, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The primary call is a distinctive, repetitive, and rather mournful 'cook-a-wook', 'hoo-hoo-hoo', or 'hoop-hoop-hoop' with a slight rising inflection. It is often described as sounding like 'two-up'. The call is deep and resonant, easily recognizable.

Calls

In addition to the advertising call, they emit a soft 'coo' or 'whirr' during courtship or when disturbed. Alarm calls are typically a sharper, more urgent 'hoo'.

When they vocalize

Calls are most frequent during the breeding season but can be heard year-round, particularly in the morning and late afternoon.

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