Doves are members of the Columbidae family, a group of birds that includes pigeons and is found nearly worldwide. They are one of the most widely recognized avian species, often inhabiting both natural and human-altered environments.
General Build and Size
The dove has a plump body that appears rounded. This stout torso is supported by relatively short legs, which often results in a low-slung stance when the bird is walking on the ground. A small, delicate head is perched atop a very short neck, giving the dove a distinct silhouette.
The body proportions of a typical dove, such as the widely distributed Mourning Dove, place it in the medium-sized bird category. These doves generally measure between 9 and 13 inches in length from bill to tail tip. Their wingspan commonly ranges from 15 to 18 inches, allowing for strong, direct flight.
Coloration and Plumage
Dove plumage is characterized by a muted color palette, avoiding the vibrant hues seen in many tropical birds. The most common colors are various shades of dusty gray, brown, and tan, often blending seamlessly with natural backgrounds. The breast and belly may display subtle pinkish or buff-colored washes.
Iridescence is present, particularly around the neck area. This structural coloration is not a pigment but a result of light reflecting off microscopic feather structures, shifting between greenish, purplish, or rosy tones depending on the viewing angle. Many species also exhibit distinct dark markings, such as black spots or specks located on the wing coverts, which break up the uniform color of the back and wings.
Distinctive Features for Identification
The dove’s head features a small, slender bill that is dark, often black or dark brown, and tapers to a fine point. They possess prominent, dark eyes, and these eyes are frequently encircled by a patch of bare, light-colored skin known as an orbital ring. This ring can range in color from a pale blue to a reddish tone, depending on the specific species.
The tail shape offers a significant field mark for identification. For instance, the Mourning Dove is identified by its long, distinctly pointed tail. In contrast, other species, such as the White-winged Dove or Eurasian Collared-Dove, may exhibit tails that are shorter, squarer, or slightly fan-shaped, often tipped with a band of white feathers.