Week 1: Beginner
Scroll down and study these two birds by sight and sound. Then, take the quiz.
WEEK 1 BIRDS
Mourning Dove and Eurasian-Collared Dove
Eurasian-collared Dove
Bird Code: EUCD
Identify this bird by…
Large bird with square tail
The black “collar” around the back of its neck
Tell it apart by…
Larger and heavier than the Mourning Dove
Lacks spotting on side of body, instead this bird is overall a paler overall grey
Squared tail (rather than pointed/tapered)
Listen for…
A rhythmic, repeated, three-syllable hooting: “coo-COO-coo!” With three syllables (instead of five) and an emphasized middle note, the song is rhythmically different from the mourning dove. Also: a very harsh and nasal sound during flights.
Resources:
Mourning Dove
Bird Code: MODO
Identify this bird by…
Plump body, small head and bill, long-tail
Wings make an airy whinny, or whistle as they take off
Tell it apart by…
Darker and smaller than Eurasian-collared Dove
Tail is long and pointed (or tapered) in flight
Black spots on lower wings and rump
Dark smudge or dot on cheek
Listen for…
A mournful and slow hooting, five-syllable hooting: “oo-AAHH-hoo-hoo-hoo.” Listen also to the light, airy whistle of the wings when they fly.
Resources: