Mourning Dove

Description: In terms of total harvest, the mourning dove is the leading game bird in North America and is one of the most widespread and abundant bird species in the world. It has a slim body and a long tail, which tapers to a point. The color is a light gray-brown, while the underside is lighter with a pinkish wash. The wings have black spots and the feet are red. The sexes are nearly identical. Average size: 11-13 inches. Average weight: 5-6 ½ ounces.

Science: There are two known subspecies: eastern and western. The eastern subspecies is browner and larger, while the western subspecies is smaller and paler. The large breeding range extends across southern Canada, the entire United States, and into Mexico. Mourning doves do not tolerate cold weather and begin migration as early as August. Birds are highly adaptable and use almost any area for their habitat, though they seldom use dense woodlands. They eat a large variety of seeds and grain and move from roosting areas with trees to feeding areas in the morning, then move back to the roosting area, then back to feed again in the evening. Before roosting in the evening, they pick up bits of gravel and seek water. Birds gather in large migrating flocks. Because of their adaptability, their population is stable.

Hunting: The common technique is to choose an area between the roosting and feeding areas and pass-shoot birds. Birds are often fast and erratic flyers, which makes them challenging to shoot. Decoys and calls are made and are effective, but are often not needed. The eating quality is good: the meat is somewhat dark but mild.