How to identify the Mourning Dove

To correctly identify the Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), 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

22-36 cm (8.7-14.2 in)

Wingspan

37-45 cm (14.6-17.7 in)

Weight

96-170 g (3.4-6.0 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Overall grayish-brown to buffy-tan, with a paler, often pinkish wash on the breast and belly. The back and wings are a slightly darker gray-brown, often with small black spots on the wing coverts. The primary flight feathers are dark. The long, graduated tail has white tips on the outer feathers, visible in flight and when fanned.

2. 2

   Beak shape

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

   Small, slender, and dark gray to black.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown, surrounded by a patch of pale blue skin.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dull reddish-pink.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Small head, slender body, long pointed tail with white outer tail feathers, and a distinctive black spot on the lower side of the neck (often more prominent in males).

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are similar to adults but have a scaly appearance due to pale feather edgings, especially on the wing coverts and breast. They lack the iridescent neck patch and the black neck spot is absent or very faint.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage remains consistent year-round, though wear and tear can make feathers appear duller before molting.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males tend to be slightly larger and have a more pronounced iridescent pinkish-purple sheen on the neck and breast, and a brighter blue-gray crown. Females are generally duller, with less iridescence and a more uniform brownish-gray head. The black spot on the neck is often more distinct in males.

Key field marks

• Shape and Size. Look for a slender, medium-sized dove with a small head and a long, pointed tail.
• Plumage Color. Observe the overall grayish-brown to buffy-tan body, with a pinkish wash on the breast and belly. Note the small black spots on the wings.
• Tail. The long, pointed tail with white tips on the outer feathers is a key field mark, especially visible in flight.
• Neck Spot. Look for a small black spot on the lower side of the neck, though it can be faint or absent in females and juveniles.
• Flight. Listen for the distinctive whistling sound made by their wings during takeoff and landing. Observe their swift, direct flight.
• Vocalization. Learn their characteristic mournful 'coo-OO-oo-oo-oo' call, which is often the first indication of their presence.

Explore the Mourning Dove