Species · GBIF taxon 2495674
African Mourning Dove
Streptopelia decipiensAlso known as Mourning Collared Dove, African Mourning Collared Dove
African mourning doves are elegant, medium-sized birds recognized by their soft grey-brown plumage, pink-flushed breasts, and a prominent black collar on the back of the neck. They gather in large, peaceful flocks near rivers and waterholes, filling the savanna air with a distinctive, low, growling coo. These adaptable birds forage on the ground for seeds and grains, frequently mingling with other dove species in agricultural fields.
GranivorousVocalSocial
Licensed referenceDerek Keats from Johannesburg, South Africa / CC BY 2.0 · cc-by
- diet
- Seeds, grains, small fruits, and occasional insects
- family
- Columbidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, hunting, and agricultural pesticide exposure
- life Span
- Typically 5 to 10 years in the wild
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Listen for the call: Identify them by their fast, descending, growling coo that sounds like mourning.
- Look near water: Scan muddy banks of rivers and waterholes where they gather to drink.
- Check the eyes: Distinguish them from similar collared doves by their bright yellow eyes and bare grey skin.