How to identify the Zenaida Dove

To correctly identify the Zenaida Dove (Zenaida aurita), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

28-30 cm

Wingspan

43-46 cm

Weight

110-180 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Overall warm reddish-brown to grayish-brown on the upperparts, with a purplish-pink wash on the neck and breast. The underparts are paler, often buffy or whitish. Distinctive black spots are present on the wing coverts and a prominent black streak extends from behind the eye to the ear coverts. The primary flight feathers are dark, contrasting with the lighter body. The tail is relatively short and rounded, with white tips on the outer tail feathers, visible in flight.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Slender, dark gray to blackish bill, slightly decurved at the tip.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown, surrounded by a narrow, pale blue or gray orbital ring.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Reddish-pink to purplish-red.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Black spots on the wings, black streak behind the eye, iridescent purplish-pink neck patches (more prominent in males), and white tips on outer tail feathers.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller overall, with less iridescence and a more mottled or scaled appearance due to pale feather edgings. The black spots on the wings and behind the eye are present but may be less defined. Their legs and orbital ring are typically duller.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage may appear slightly worn or faded outside of breeding season, but no distinct breeding vs. non-breeding plumages.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males tend to have brighter, more extensive purplish-pink iridescence on the neck and breast, and may be slightly larger. Females are generally duller, with less vibrant iridescence. However, differences can be subtle and difficult to discern in the field.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Medium-sized, stocky dove with a relatively short, rounded tail.
• Plumage Coloration. Warm reddish-brown to grayish-brown upperparts, purplish-pink wash on neck/breast, paler underparts.
• Black Markings. Look for distinct black spots on the wing coverts and a prominent black streak extending from behind the eye.
• Tail Pattern. Observe the white tips on the outer tail feathers, especially visible in flight.
• Iridescence. Note the iridescent purplish-pink patches on the sides of the neck, more pronounced in males.
• Vocalization. Listen for its characteristic mournful 'coo-OO-oo-oo-oo' call.
• Flight. Watch for its strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats and a clatter upon takeoff.

Explore the Zenaida Dove