The Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) is one of North America’s most widespread and abundant bird species, recognizable by its slender tail, delicate appearance, and the melancholy, low-pitched “coo-oo, coo, coo, coo” vocalization. Found across the contiguous 48 states, southern Canada, Mexico, and Cuba, this highly adaptable bird is a common sight in suburbs, parks, and agricultural fields. The dove is often seen year-round, leading many observers to question whether it ever departs its familiar territories. Its large geographic range means its movement patterns are far more complex than simple migration.
The Migration Answer: Partial Movement
Mourning Doves are categorized as “partial migrants,” meaning only a portion of the population undertakes seasonal journeys. This migratory pattern is primarily determined by latitude. Populations breeding in the northernmost extent of the range, such as in Canada and the northern United States, are largely migratory, seeking warmer climates for winter survival. Conversely, doves residing in the central and southern regions of the continent are often sedentary, remaining in the same general area throughout the year. Partial migration allows the species to maximize its breeding range in the summer while avoiding the harshest winter conditions.
Defining the Migratory Paths
The populations that migrate follow established flyways over land, moving from their northern breeding grounds southward toward wintering destinations. These journeys often terminate in the southern United States, Mexico, or, for the longest-distance travelers, extending as far south as Panama. The distance traveled is considered short to mid-range compared to many other North American migrants. The timing of this movement is specific, with fall migration typically beginning in late August or September and continuing through November. The departure is not simultaneous; immature birds often leave first, followed by adult females, and finally, the adult males. Migrating doves travel in flocks during daylight hours at relatively low altitudes, pausing to rest overnight. The return migration north to the breeding territories begins in the early spring, usually from March to May.
Why Some Doves Choose to Stay
The ability of some Mourning Doves to remain resident year-round is closely linked to the availability of resources and winter temperatures. In mid-latitude and southern regions, the climate is mild enough to allow sustained foraging without the need for a long journey. The primary factor enabling sedentary behavior is a reliable food supply, which consists almost entirely of seeds and small grains. In areas that experience moderate cold, human intervention plays a role, as seeds provided by backyard feeders supplement natural resources, allowing doves to persist through the winter months. For the few individuals, mostly males, that choose to stay in colder northern areas, the trade-off is the risk of higher mortality or physical injury, such as frostbitten toes, but they gain a reproductive advantage by securing the best nesting territories early in the spring.