The Common Ground-Dove is normally found only in the southern tier of states in the continental U.S., but does tend to wander widely to the north. A quite tame bird, they will often remain sitting in a location until almost stepped upon. Despite the tameness, they are not nearly as "urban" a bird as other doves such as the Inca Dove, and are more often found away from urban areas.
Habitat
Found in a variety of semi-open habitats with brush and grass, such as farms, forest edges, roadsides, and brushy thickets.
Diet
Feeds primarily seeds. Also feeds on fruits and berries, and occasionally on insects.
Behavior
Feeds on the ground, walking around and picking up seeds and fallen fruit.
Breeding
Non-breeder in South Dakota
Song
Soft repetitive woo-oo , rising on the second syllable
Migration
Thought to primarily be a permanent resident throughout most of its range, although there are some indications that some birds in the southwestern U.S. do migrate southward in the winter.
Similar Species
Inca Dove , Ruddy Ground-Dove
Feeders
Will come for seeds scattered on the ground.
Conservation Status
Has undergone serious declines in many parts of its range in recent decades.
Photo Information
June 2015 - St. John's, U.S. Virgin Islands - Terry Sohl
Interactive eBird Map
Click to access the eBird species page for Common Ground-Dove
