ID Keys: Scaled feather pattern, long tail, rusty red wing feathers
when flying.
The Inca Dove is primarily
associated with urban areas of the southwest U.S., as they've learned to take
advantage of the free handouts often provided by humans. In the U.S. part of
their range, they are actually quite uncommon outside of urban settings.
It is doubtful that they occurred in the United States before human settlement,
and their range is continuing to expand to the north.
Habitat
Primarily found around human
dwellings in the United States part of its range, including suburban areas,
farms, and parks. Will also occasionally use riparian areas.
Diet
Feeds primarily on seeds. Will also
sometimes eat fruit, especially the fruit of cactii.
Behavior
Nearly always forages on the ground.
Breeding
Non-breeder in South Dakota
Song
Sad gentle
cooing.
Migration
Primarily a permanent resident, but some wander
northward in the fall and winter.
