photo by Phil Swanson

Zenaida asiatica
L 11 1/2″ (29 cm).

Song or calls:
Listen (NGPC audio)

Harsh cooing similar to a crowing rooster; likened to “who cooks for you-all.”

Description: Sexes similar. Drab brown body with large white wing patches. On sitting bird, the wing patch shows only as a thin white line. Purplish sheen on head, neck, and shoulder; tail is short and rounded.

Habitat: Usually found in dense mesquite, mature citrus groves, riparian woodlands, and suburbs.

Where in Nebraska: Rare, but increasing; spring and fall migrant; and summer and winter visitor statewide.

Status: These birds are considered game in their normal range.

Fun Facts: Although White-winged Doves are found primarily in the Southwest their range is expanding across the United States.

 
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