Mourning Doves: Graceful Visitors to Your Backyard

If you’ve ever spent a tranquil morning sipping coffee in your backyard, chances are the gentle cooing of Mourning Doves has serenaded you. These elegant birds are expected guests in backyards across North America, and today, we’re here to introduce you to their world.

The Elegance of Mourning Doves

Mourning Doves are renowned for their understated beauty. Their soft gray feathers, slender tails, and striking ringed eyes give them a unique charm. Their wings emit a soothing sound when they take flight, adding to their elegance. It’s no wonder that they are considered the symbol of peace and grace among birds.

The Musical Duo: Mourning Dove Calls

One of the most captivating aspects of these doves is their melodious cooing. Their call can be confused with an owl’s to those listening with an untrained ear. If you’ve ever wondered who’s responsible for those mournful yet soothing sounds in your backyard, it’s likely a pair of Mourning Doves. They use their calls for communication, especially during courtship.

Intriguingly, each dove has a slightly different coo, and these coos can range from a gentle “cooOOoo-woo-woo” to a more rhythmic “coo-coo, coo-coo.” These calls can be enchanting, adding a harmonious touch to your outdoor space.

Mourning Dove Behavior

Mourning Doves have fascinating behaviors that make them a joy to observe. They are ground feeders, primarily dining on seeds and grains. Scatter some birdseed in your garden, and you’ll likely find them pecking away gracefully.
When it comes to nesting, Mourning Doves are models of loyalty. They often mate for life and share the responsibility of raising their young. Their simple nests can be found in trees, ledges, or even on your porch if you’re fortunate. It’s truly heartwarming to witness their devotion.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Mourning Doves in Your Garden

If you want to attract these lovely birds to your backyard, it’s surprisingly easy. Consider setting up a bird feeder stocked with seeds. They’ll also appreciate a birdbath for a quick dip. Providing a peaceful and safe environment will make your backyard an inviting haven for Mourning Doves.

Mourning Dove Conservation

While Mourning Doves are common, it’s essential to be mindful of their conservation. Their populations are stable, but responsible bird-watching and conservation efforts are still crucial. By providing a safe and welcoming space for them, you’re contributing to their well-being.

Conclusion

In your backyard, these graceful creatures bring an air of tranquility and beauty. Mourning Doves are the perfect companions for your morning coffee, adding their gentle coos to your moments of serenity. As you watch them feed and care for their young, you become a part of their world, and they are a part of yours.

So, next time you hear their mournful coos, take a moment to appreciate the elegance and charm of Mourning Doves. Share your dove-watching experiences with fellow backyard bird enthusiasts and join the community of those who find joy in these beautiful visitors.

I know most people do not want to hear this on a bird BLOG but Mourning Doves are the most frequently hunted species in North America. I enjoy watching these beautiful birds in my backyard. There is no hunting going on in my backyard. I also understand that these and many other species of birds have found their way to dinner tables around the world. It seems in today’s society the thought of an animal being used to feed a family is offensive. Yet, they are okay stopping by KFC and getting a bucket of chicken.

These beautiful birds are a buffy tan – brown with some pinkish tones on some. They have black spots on their back feathers. They are 9.1 – 13.4 inches long. They weigh between 3.4 – 6.0 oz. And have a wingspan of 17.7 inches.

This one has pink talons wrapped around the shepherd’s hook. They perch anywhere. I often seen them up on the power lines. They perch up there in a line.

Seeds make up 99% of the Mourning Doves diet. They can be seen sitting in my bird feeders for hours gobbling down the seed. Mourning Doves eat roughly 12 to 20 percent of their body weight per day. A lot of people mistake these birds for pigeons.

In the video below you can see them enjoying the bird bath.