Long Island, NY October, 2007 Photograph by
Sharon O'Shea Wood
The Mourning Dove is common in rural areas in all parts of the United States, as well as city parks and, in winter, suburban feeders. In some states it is hunted as a game bird while in others it is protected as a songbird. Its species name, macroura, is Greek for "long-tailed." The young are fed regurgitated, partially digested food known as pigeon milk.
I have counted as many as 41 Mourning Doves at one time at my feeders. They are primarily ground feeders but have adapted to my raised platform very well.
To my great surprise one day I watched one Mourning Dove defend its position on the platform feeder against three Blue Jays and the Mourning Dove won hands down.
