The mourning dove (Zenaida macroura) is a familiar bird across North America, known for its slender profile and the distinctive, melancholy sound that gives the species its name. This soft, drawn-out call, often heard echoing from utility wires or treetops, is one of the most recognizable sounds in many suburban and rural environments. Understanding who produces this vocalization requires exploring the different communication roles played by male and female doves.
The Distinctive Coo: Male Vocalizations
The loud, mournful cooing most people associate with this species is produced almost exclusively by the male mourning dove. This specific vocalization is known as the “perch coo” or advertising call, used by an unmated male from a prominent vantage point. The sound is typically a five-note phrase, often transcribed as Coo-OOO-Coo-Coo-Coo, with the second note being the most emphasized.
The primary function of this sustained and far-reaching call is twofold: territorial defense and mate attraction. By repeatedly broadcasting the coo, the male establishes a “sonic fence,” warning other males to stay away from his claimed area. The strength and consistency of the vocal performance signal his health and quality of territory to potential female partners.
Once a pair bond is established, the male performs a softer, three-part “nest-coo” to encourage the female to join him at a chosen nest site. This call, often described as coo-OO-oo with a rising middle section, is shorter and less forceful than the advertising coo.
Female Vocalizations and Nesting Calls
Female mourning doves do not typically produce the loud, territorial coo characteristic of the species. They are generally much quieter than their male counterparts, relying on softer, shorter vocalizations used only in close proximity. These sounds are focused on maintaining the pair bond and coordinating the duties of raising their young.
Females utilize soft calls when interacting with their mate during incubation or feeding the hatchlings. They offer quiet, one or two-note sounds that serve as greeting coos or contact calls, ensuring communication without drawing attention to the nest. This subtle vocal behavior is important for coordinating the shared responsibilities, such as the male and female exchanging places on the nest throughout the day. The difference in volume and purpose highlights a clear division of vocal labor, with the male handling long-distance calls and the female focusing on short-range communication.
Non-Vocal Communication
Beyond cooing, mourning doves rely heavily on mechanical sounds produced by their bodies, which are equally important for communication. The most notable non-vocal sound is the distinct, high-pitched whistle heard when a dove takes off or lands. This sound is not made with the syrinx, the bird’s vocal organ, but is generated by air passing over modified primary wing feathers.
This characteristic wing whistle serves as an effective alarm signal for other nearby doves. When a dove rapidly takes flight, often due to a perceived threat, the whistle instantly alerts other individuals to the presence of danger. The sound helps to maintain flock cohesion and ensures a rapid, coordinated response to predators.