ID Keys: Brownish-gray upperparts, ruddy-gray underparts,
white trailing edge of wing seen in flight
The
Zenaida Dove is a close relative of North America's
Mourning Dove. However, their
range is primarily on islands of the Caribbean, as well as much of South
America. In the United States, they once used to nest in select
locations in the Florida Keys. However, nesting has seemingly stopped,
and they are now just considered rare vagrants to the Florida Keys and south
Florida.
Habitat
Found in a variety of open and semi-open
habitats, including agricultural land, grasslands and savannahs, low open
scrubland, forest edges, and open woodlands. They can be found in most
lowland habitats in their range, except for unbroken and dense forest.
Diet
Mostly feeds on seeds, fruits, and berries.
However, they will also occasionally feed on small invertebrates such as
insects, spiders, and earthworms.
Behavior
Feeds by walking on the ground in search
of food. Will also sometimes forage low in the foliage and branches of
shrubs and trees, especially when feeding on fruits and berries.
Nesting
The nest of a Zenaida Dove is a loose
platform of sticks, usually placed low in a tree or shrub, but also
sometimes placed directly on the ground. The female lays two eggs.
Both parents help to raise the young after the eggs hatch, feeding them
regurgitated "pigeon milk" like many other pigeon and dove species.
The young leave the nest after about 2 weeks.
Song
The song of a Zenaida Dove is a
multi-phrased cooing.
Migration
Considered a permanent resident
throughout its normal range.
