Eurasian Collared Dove Vs Mourning Dove: What’s the Difference?
Eurasian collared doves and mourning doves are two species of doves that are often confused with each other due to their similar behavior and appearance. Both species belong to the Columbidae family of doves or pigeons. However, there are several key differences between the two species that can help distinguish them.
Eurasian collared doves are generally larger than mourning doves, with an average length of 11.4-11.8 inches and a weight between 4.9-6.3 ounces. They have a small streak of black feathers across their neck while mourning doves have a thinner one beneath their eyes. Eurasian collared doves make a ‘Kook’ call to mate while mourning doves make a ‘coo’ sound.
In terms of habitat, mourning doves are more commonly found in rural areas, fields, and farmlands, while Eurasian collared doves prefer more urbanized areas. Both species can be observed feeding on seeds, grains, and fruits.
This article will delve into these two avian species’ distinguishing characteristics and behaviors. So keep reading to learn more in detail.
Distinguishing Physical Traits of Eurasian Collared Dove and Mourning Dove
Bird enthusiasts and naturalists often encounter the challenge of differentiating between the Eurasian Collared Dove and the Mourning Dove. These two avian species share certain resemblances but are set apart by distinct physical characteristics.
Size Discrepancy
The most apparent disparity between these doves is their size. Eurasian Collared Doves are notably larger, measuring between 11.4 to 11.8 inches and weighing between 4.4 to 8.5 ounces. In contrast, Mourning Doves are relatively smaller, presenting a more delicate appearance in terms of length and weight.
Identifying Eurasian Collared Dove
- Prominent black collar encircling the neck.
- Dark cap on the head.
- Pale creamy breast and belly.
- Bright red eyes.
- Short, dark-colored beak.
- Wings produce a distinct whistling sound in flight.
Mourning Dove Identification
- Lacks the black collar seen in Eurasian Collared Doves.
- Lighter brown shade on the head and breast.
- Dark brown eyes.
- Longer, pointed tail.
- Wings create a soft, whistling sound during flight.
Eurasian Dove Vs. Mourning Dove: Habitat and Behavior
Birds, often distinguished by their habitat and behavior, provide fascinating ecological insights. In the case of the Eurasian Collared Dove and the Mourning Dove, these two avian species display notable differences in their preferred habitats and behaviors.
Habitat
Mourning Doves display a broad spectrum of habitat preferences, comfortably residing in urban areas, forests, fields, and deserts. In contrast, Eurasian Collared Doves, while adaptable, favor habitats such as urban and suburban zones, agricultural fields, and open woodlands. These two species share an inclination for human settlements, often gracing gardens and parks with their presence.
Behavior
Mourning Doves are renowned for their melodious, mournful cooing sound, which plays a vital role in attracting mates. Conversely, Eurasian Collared Doves stand out with their distinctive “kook” call during the mating season.
Both species are monogamous and form strong pair bonds, but Mourning Doves tend to be more territorial. They form pairs and nests, often defending their territory vigorously. In contrast, Eurasian Collared Doves are less territorial and may nest in proximity to other pairs, displaying a more sociable demeanor.
Another significant difference lies in their migratory behaviors. Mourning Doves are migratory birds covering extensive regions throughout North America. In contrast, Eurasian Collared Doves, introduced in the 1980s, have become non-migratory and have expanded their range across North America.
Diet and Feeding Habits of the Eurasian Collared Dove and Mourning Dove
While Eurasian Collared Doves and Mourning Doves share some dietary similarities, several distinctions set their feeding habits apart.
Eurasian Collared Dove
These doves have a diet centered around seed and cereal grains such as millet, sunflower, milo, wheat, and corn. They occasionally incorporate berries, green plant parts, and invertebrates into their meals. Eurasian Collared Doves predominantly forage on the ground, often in flocks when not breeding. Their occasional fluttering among trees and shrubs allows them to gather berries.
Mourning Dove
Like Eurasian Collared Doves, Mourning Doves predominantly feed on seeds and grains but occasionally include berries and insects. What distinguishes them is their unique feeding behavior. They do not prepare their food in advance but pick up large quantities of whole seeds as they forage. These seeds are stored in their crop, a sac-like chamber in their throat. Following this, they fly to a sheltered area to digest their meal.
What is the nesting and breeding behavior of Eurasian Collared Doves compared to Mourning Doves?
Eurasian Collared Doves and Mourning Doves both exhibit similar nesting and breeding behaviors. However, there are slight differences in the mourning dove egg hatching timeline. Mourning doves usually hatch their eggs in about 14 days, while Eurasian Collared Doves take around 15-16 days for their eggs to hatch.
How Can I Tell the Difference Between a Mourning Dove and a Eurasian Collared Dove?
The meaning of mourning dove visits can be discerned by understanding the physical characteristics that distinguish them from Eurasian collared doves. Mourning doves are smaller with pointed tails and a soft cooing call, whereas Eurasian collared doves have a squared tail and a harsher coo. Observing these features will help identify the significant differences between the two dove species.
What are the main differences between Eurasian Collared Doves and Mourning Doves?
Eurasian collared doves are larger and have a more distinct black collar compared to mourning doves. The coloring of their feathers also differs, with Eurasian collared doves having a more grayish hue while mourning doves have a reddish-brown color. Additionally, the eurasian collared dove breed tends to have a more “chunky” appearance.
Eurasian Collared Dove Vs. Mourning Dove: Breeding and Nesting Behaviors
Although similar in appearance, Eurasian Collared Doves and Mourning Doves display notable differences in their breeding and nesting behaviors, reflecting their distinct ecological niches.
Eurasian Collared Dove
- Year-round Breeding: Eurasian Collared Doves breed throughout the year, particularly when food is abundant, showcasing their adaptability to variable food resources.
- Nest Construction: The male plays an active role in nest-building by providing nesting materials to the female. The female then constructs a straightforward platform nest.
- Nest Reuse: Eurasian Collared Doves frequently reuse the same nest for multiple broods during the year, often renovating old nests to accommodate new offspring.
- Clutch Size: Typically, they have clutch sizes ranging from 1 to 2 eggs per brood.
- Multiple Broods: These doves can have an impressive number of broods per year, ranging from 3 to 6.
- Incubation and Fledging: The incubation period lasts around 14-18 days, and the young leave the nest at about 15-19 days old.
Mourning Dove
- Seasonal Breeding: Mourning Doves also breed throughout the year, with peak breeding activity occurring in the spring and summer months, aligning with optimal environmental conditions.
- Nest Selection: Male Mourning Doves take on the role of selecting a nesting site. They attract females by performing captivating display flights.
- Nest Construction: Once a pair bond is formed, the male dove contributes nesting materials, while the female undertakes the construction of a flimsy platform nest typically placed in trees or shrubs.
- Clutch Size: They consistently have clutch sizes of 2 eggs per brood.
- Incubation and Fledging: The incubation period lasts approximately 14-15 days, and the young doves leave the nest around 12-14 days old.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between the Eurasian Collared Dove and the Mourning Dove provides valuable insights into the diverse avian world. While both species share similarities such as year-round breeding and adaptability to various environments, their nuanced behaviors and characteristics set them apart.
The Eurasian Collared Dove, with its tendency for nest reuse, higher number of broods, and male involvement in nest-building, showcases remarkable adaptability and prolificacy. On the other hand, the Mourning Dove’s unique courtship displays, wherein males select nesting sites and perform captivating flights, highlight their intricate social behaviors.
These distinctions not only emphasize their ecological roles but also underscore the intricacies of nature’s designs. Observing these doves in their habitats illuminates the rich tapestry of avian life, celebrating the marvels of biodiversity in our natural world.