Doves are a familiar sight in many landscapes worldwide. These birds, belonging to the family Columbidae, are known for their placid nature and widespread presence. They are found in various habitats, from urban parks to rural farmlands, contributing distinctive calls to the natural soundscape.
The Nuance of Dove Migration
Whether doves migrate depends on the specific species and geographic location. Bird migration involves the regular, seasonal movement of birds between breeding and wintering grounds. While some dove species undertake extensive seasonal journeys, others remain in the same area throughout the year. This phenomenon is known as partial migration, meaning some populations within a species migrate while others are resident.
Doves That Journey
Several dove species are recognized for their migratory patterns, undertaking significant travels between seasons.
Mourning Dove
The Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) is a well-known partial migrant in North America, with northern populations flying south for winter. These birds typically migrate to the southern U.S., Mexico, or Central America. Their migration usually occurs during the day, in flocks, and at relatively low altitudes.
European Turtle Dove
In Europe, the European Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur) is a long-distance migrant, breeding across the western Palearctic and wintering in sub-Saharan Africa. These doves are among the later migrants, returning south in September. They often fly at night, capable of covering up to 700 kilometers without stopping, with their routes sometimes crossing the Mediterranean Sea.
White-winged Dove
White-winged Doves (Zenaida asiatica) also exhibit migratory behavior, with some populations traveling to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean for the winter.
Doves That Stay
In contrast to migratory species, many doves are largely non-migratory, remaining in their home territories year-round.
Eurasian Collared-Dove
The Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) exemplifies a resident dove species that has rapidly expanded its range across North America since its introduction. These doves are commonly found in urban, suburban, and agricultural areas where food sources like grain are readily available. Their adaptability allows them to thrive as permanent residents in many regions.
Common Ground-Dove
The Common Ground-Dove (Columbina passerina) also maintains a largely resident lifestyle across its range in the southern U.S., Mexico, and Central and South America. While generally non-migratory, some populations may make seasonal movements to warmer coastal areas during winter. These doves typically inhabit arid, open woodlands, shrub habitats, and areas near human habitation, where resources are consistently found.
The Drivers Behind Dove Movement
The decisions behind whether a dove species migrates or remains resident are shaped by a combination of ecological and biological factors.
A primary motivator for migration is food availability. Birds seek regions with abundant sustenance to support themselves and their offspring. As winter approaches in northern breeding areas, declining food supplies often prompt a southward movement to warmer regions where food is more plentiful.
Climate conditions also play a significant role, with many migratory doves moving to avoid harsh winter weather and to take advantage of milder climates. The increasing length of daylight hours in northern summers provides extended periods for breeding birds to forage and feed their young. Changes in day length, or photoperiod, trigger migratory behavior, along with temperature shifts and genetic predispositions. The quest for suitable nesting habitats and the avoidance of predation pressures also influence these seasonal movements.