Monday, February 21, 2011

Ground Birds - X

The White Winged Dove extends from Southwest US through Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Although not part of their historic range, its range has been expanding into Kansas and Oklahoma (probably from Texas). At first glance they appear similar to the Mourning Dove. However, they are much larger, have a dominant white stripe easily seen along it's wing, have pinkish feet, and no blue ring around the eye. The White Winged Dove migrates, spending its winters in Mexico and Central America. It arrives -- in big numbers -- in Arizona in the April time frame and stays through September. We probably have a hundred or more here at The Azure Gate each Spring and Summer. The female nests here giving birth to two chicks. It is primarily and nectar and seed feeder, enjoying the Saguaro Cactus fruit.


Above two photos: White Winged Dove eating Saguaro Fruit

Above: White Winged Dove in African Sumac

Above: White Winged Dove with two chicks nesting in Palo Verde Tree.


No comments:

Post a Comment