White-tipped Dove Identification

The Four Keys to ID

• Size & Shape

  A portly dove with a small head, short, rounded tail, and short legs.

  Relative Size

  Larger than a Mourning Dove, smaller than a Rock Pigeon.

  robin-sized

  Measurements

  • Both Sexes
  • • Length: 9.8-12.2 in (25-31 cm)
    • Weight: 3.5-8.1 oz (99-230 g)
• Color Pattern

  Adults are brown above and pale below, with a whitish chin and forehead. The tail has whitish corners, visible in flight. The eyes are pale yellow; legs and feet are reddish. In optimal light, the neck and breast show magenta and light blue-green iridescence.

• Behavior

  Forages mostly on the ground, walking quickly and bobbing its head. Eats seeds, berries, and insects. When alarmed, flushes upward with a loud wing noise, but usually settles not far away.

• Habitat

  Nests and forages in thick brush and woodlands with abundant vines, usually near water. Sometimes uses citrus groves.