Everglades National Park Birding Tour: Doves

There are a few species of doves in South Florida now - with the most commonly seen now being the Eurasian Collared Dove (not pictured). This is a species that was introduced in the Bahamas in the 1970's that has, on its own, made it to Florida and appears to have taken over. The more native Mourning Dove, shown here is still prevelant but apparently is more timid.

The Mourning Dove is one of the most abundant birds in North America. It is also a leading gamebird, and is still hunted in S. Fla. The bird is a strong flier capable of speeds of 55 mph. Mourning Doves are light grey and brown and generally muted in color.

Another species found in S. Fla. now is the white-winged Dove which was intentionally introduced here in the 1970's when they were relased by an aviary. They are now established and are nesting and feeding in rural, agricultural and suburban areas.

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