Bird
Eared Dove
Zenaida auriculataAlso known as Torcaza, Violet-eared Dove, South American Mourning Dove
Eared doves are highly gregarious birds, often gathering in massive flocks of thousands in agricultural areas where they feed on fallen grain. They are easily recognized by the dark, iridescent blue-black line behind each eye that resembles a tiny ear, along with their soft, rhythmic cooing calls. During the breeding season, males perform steep, clapping display flights to attract mates before building flimsy twig nests in low trees or bushes.
GregariousUrban-adaptedVocal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preySorghum seeds, Maize kernels, Sunflower seeds
Predators
- Hawks
- Falcons
- Feral cats
ThreatsAgricultural pesticides and intensive sport hunting
HabitatsSavannahs, agricultural fields, pastures, and urban parks
Life span5 to 10 years
Classification
- FamilyColumbidae
- SpeciesZenaida auriculata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Listening: Listen for their low, mournful three-syllable cooing call in the early morning.
- Garden visits: Provide a ground-level birdbath, as they prefer drinking and bathing on the ground.
Close Relative (c) Paul Danese, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Close Relative (c) MarvalPhotography19, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by MarvalPhotography19 · cc-by
Image unavailableClose Relative
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