In the diverse landscape of California, numerous species of birds have found their niche, and doves are no exception. These gentle and graceful birds are a common sight across the Golden State. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, each with its unique characteristics. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of doves in California, exploring the nine most prominent species that call this beautiful state their home. So, grab your binoculars, and let’s embark on an avian adventure!

Types of Doves (& Pigeons) That Live in California

California’s unique geographical features and climate provide a welcoming habitat for various dove species. Let’s take a closer look at each of these remarkable birds:

1. Mourning Doves in California

The Mourning Dove: A Gentle Visitor

Mourning doves are elegant birds that have a soft gray-brown plumage and a characteristic teardrop-shaped mark located below their eyes. They are slim and graceful in appearance. They range in length from about 9 to 13 inches.

Habitat: Because of their remarkable degree of adaptability, these doves are frequently found living in urban settings, farmlands, and even deserts.

Diet: The majority of their food consists of seeds and grains, and they are frequently observed searching for food on the ground.

Fun Fact: Mourning doves are famous for their melancholy cooing, which has been described as having a calming effect on the ears.

Related Article: Doves in Indiana (4 Species You Should Know) with Photos

2. Common Ground-Doves in California

The Tiny Turtledove

The Shared Environment The length of a dove is approximately 6-7 inches, making it one of the shortest of all doves. They have a striking white ring around each eye that stands out against their pinkish-gray plumage.

Habitat: Open forests, scrublands, and grasslands are the habitats that these doves love the most. You might witness them rummaging for food on the ground, where they might find seeds or insects.

Nesting Habits: Habits Relating to the Construction of Nests They are well-known for their exceptional nest-building abilities, and they frequently build their nests in low bushes or trees.

Did It Cross Your Mind? That Which Is Shared The cooing of larger dove species can be differentiated from the “pit-pit” cry of smaller dove species because to the difference in pitch.

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3. White-winged Dove

The Desert Wanderer

• Description: White-winged doves are medium-sized with a grayish-brown body and striking white wing patches. They measure around 10-12 inches in length.
• Range: They are more commonly found in the southern parts of California, particularly in desert regions.
• Diet: These doves have a diverse diet, including fruits, seeds, and insects, making them essential pollinators for various desert plants.

Fun Fact: White-winged doves are excellent mimics and can imitate the calls of other birds.

4. Inca Dove

The Ornate Miniature Dove

• Description: Inca doves are small and delicate with a distinctive scaly appearance on their wings. They measure about 7-9 inches long.
• Habitat: They prefer open areas, gardens, and parks. Inca doves are often seen perched on utility wires.
• Nesting Behavior: These doves are known for their unique nesting habits, with males presenting sticks to females as part of their courtship ritual.

Interesting Observation: Inca doves have a subtle, soft cooing call that can be quite charming to bird enthusiasts.

5. Eurasian Collared-Doves in California

The Invader of Suburbia

• Description: Eurasian collared doves are medium-sized doves with pale gray plumage and a distinctive black “collar” on their necks.
• Origin: Originally from Europe, they are now widespread in urban and suburban areas throughout California.
• Diet: Their diet primarily consists of seeds and grains, and they are often seen at bird feeders.

Did You Know? Eurasian collared doves are known for their rapid expansion and colonization of new areas, earning them the nickname “Ring-necked Turtle-Doves.”

Must Read: Hummingbird Feet (All You Need To Know)

6. Rock Pigeon

The City Dweller

• Description: Rock pigeons are stout birds with a wide range of color variations, from gray and white to brown and black.
• Habitat: These birds are highly adaptable and thrive in urban environments, often nesting on buildings and bridges.
• Behavior: They are known for their distinctive cooing and head-bobbing displays during courtship.

Fun Fact: The familiar pigeon found in cities worldwide is a domesticated form of the wild rock pigeon.

7. Band-tailed Pigeon

The Forest Nomad

• Description: Band-tailed pigeons are large and robust birds with gray plumage and a prominent white crescent on the back of their necks.
• Habitat: They prefer coniferous and mixed forests, making them a common sight in the mountainous regions of California.
• Diet: Their diet consists mainly of fruits and acorns, which they forage for in trees.

Interesting Observation: Band-tailed pigeons are known for their distinctive “whoo-oo-oo” call, which echoes through the forested hills of California.

8. Spotted Dove (rare)

The Elusive Beauty

• Description: Spotted doves are small, with a grayish-pink body and distinctive black spots on their wings and neck.
• Occurrence: While rare in California, they are sometimes spotted in urban areas with suitable habitat.
• Behavior: These doves are known for their gentle cooing and delicate demeanor.

Did You Know? Spotted doves are a popular cage bird in some parts of the world due to their attractive appearance and peaceful nature.

9. African Collared-Doves (rare) in California

The Unexpected Visitor

• Description: African Collared-Doves are similar in appearance to Eurasian Collared-Doves, with pale gray plumage and a black collar.
• Occurrence: Rarely, African Collared-Doves may be seen in California, often as escapees from captivity.
• Habitat: They tend to prefer urban and suburban areas when they appear in the state.

Fun Fact: African Collared-Doves are often seen in captivity due to their striking appearance and pleasant cooing.

FAQ’s:

Q1: What type of dove lives in California?

A1: California is home to a variety of dove species, including the Mourning Dove, Common Ground Dove, White-winged Dove, Inca Dove, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Rock Pigeon, Band-tailed Pigeon, Spotted Dove (although rare), and occasionally, the African Collared-Dove.

Q2: Does California have doves?

A2: Yes, California has a diverse population of doves. These gentle birds are a common sight across the state, thriving in various habitats, from urban areas to deserts and forests.

Q3: What does dove look like in California?

A3: Doves in California come in various shapes and sizes. They typically have soft, muted plumage, with colors ranging from gray to brown. Some have distinctive markings, such as white wing patches or black spots. Specific appearances may vary depending on the species.

Q4: Do mourning doves live in California?

A4: Yes, Mourning Doves are prevalent in California. They are known for their soft gray-brown plumage, teardrop-shaped mark below their eyes, and mournful cooing. These doves are common residents across the state.

Q5: Are doves and pigeons the same?

A5: Doves and pigeons belong to the same family of birds, Columbidae, but they are different species. While they share some similarities in appearance and behavior, they are distinct from each other. Doves are typically smaller and more slender, while pigeons tend to be larger and stockier.

Q6: Does California have pigeons?

A6: Yes, California has pigeons, commonly referred to as Rock Pigeons. These pigeons are often found in urban areas, nesting on buildings and bridges. They have a wide range of color variations, including gray, white, brown, and black.

Conclusion:

California’s diverse landscapes offer a welcoming haven for an array of dove species. From the gentle cooing of the Mourning Dove to the elusive beauty of the Spotted Dove, each species brings its unique charm to the state’s birdlife. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting your avian adventures, exploring the world of doves in California is sure to be a delight. So, remember to pack your binoculars and keep an eye out for these beautiful birds during your next outdoor excursion!

David Cooper