20 Fun Trivia Facts About Mourning Doves
20 Fun Trivia Facts About Mourning Doves
Mourning doves are gentle, graceful birds often seen in backyards, parks, and fields. They are known for their soft, sad-sounding calls, which gave them their name. Here are 20 fun trivia facts about mourning doves that parents and kids can learn together!
1–5: General Facts
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Mourning doves are one of the most common birds in North America.
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Their name comes from their mournful cooing sound.
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They are medium-sized birds with slim bodies and long tails.
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Their feathers are usually light gray and beige, helping them blend into the ground.
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They are sometimes called turtle doves.
6–10: Food and Feeding
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Mourning doves are mainly seed eaters—over 90% of their diet is seeds.
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They love sunflower seeds, millet, and corn.
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They often eat quickly and then store seeds in a special throat pouch.
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Later, they digest the seeds slowly in a safe place.
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They are frequent visitors to backyard bird feeders.
11–15: Nesting and Family Life
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Mourning doves build simple nests with twigs, often in trees or on ledges.
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They usually lay two white eggs at a time.
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Both parents take turns sitting on the eggs.
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Baby doves are called squabs.
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Parents feed squabs with a special milk-like liquid called crop milk.
16–20: Special Trivia
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Mourning doves can fly at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.
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Their wings make a whistling sound when they take off or land.
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They are symbols of peace and love in many cultures.
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Mourning doves often stay with the same mate for life.
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They are one of the most hunted game birds in the U.S., though populations remain strong.
Conclusion
Mourning doves are gentle and fascinating birds, from their soft calls to their family care. Learning about them helps children understand the beauty of everyday wildlife and the importance of caring for nature.