| The Mourning Dove, which sometimes called the "Turtle Dove", is a popular game in some states. More Mourning Doves are bagged by hunters in the United States than any other game bird. Contrary to popular belief the dove is not a songbird. It is a member of the Columbidae or Pidgeon. The Mourning Dove is a close relative of the Barn Pidgeon, but somewhat smaller in size. The range of the Mourning Dove is continental United States, southern Canada and MExico. Some doves are migratory, while others remain in the south during the entire year. Doves are found in woodlands, fields and residential areas. In the spring the doves pair of. The female lays two eggs to a clutch but may lay and hatch up to six clutches each year in some southern areas, Both male and female incubate the eggs and feed the young. The young are fed on "pidgeon milk". This is a milk-like substance that is predigested food from the crop of the adult bird. Seeds of small grains and weeds are the main source of food for the Mourning Dove. |
