Mourning Dove – 8/2/10

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 8/2/10

Observation Time: 8:40 a.m.

Observation Location: near Gavins Pond

Common Name: Mourning Dove

Scientific Name: Zenaida macroura

Comments: The mourning dove is one of the most abundant and widespread of all North American bird species. It is also a leading gamebird, with more than 20 million birds (up to 70 million in some years) shot annually in the U.S., both for sport and for meat. Its ability to sustain its population under such pressure is due to its prolific breeding; in warm areas, one pair may raise up to six broods of two young each in a single year.

More Information: Wikipedia or All About Birds