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Mourning Doves get their name from the sound they make. People sometimes describe it as being sad, or mournful. So that's why naturalists have named them the Mourning Dove. They're light gray and brown, and have a small head and pointed tail. When Mourning Doves fly their wings make a whistling sound. This can help when you're trying to identify them. They're a very common bird. But still, their gentle cooing always seems to add something special to the soundscape. Like most birds the Mourning Dove sings to establish territory and to attract mates. Not because they're sad all the time!
A Mourning Dove singing at dusk. Thanks for lending an Ear to the Wild. I'm Jack Hines. For more information please visit EartotheWild.com!
