Idaho is home to very few beautiful dove species. They can be found throughout the state’s diverse habitats.
From the Mourning doves to the distinctive markings of the Eurasian Collared dove, these beautiful birds are a joy to see and learn about.
In this blog post, we will explore the 3 types of doves in Idaho, their characteristics, habitat, diet, and also location.
Doves in Idaho
There are 3 types of doves usually found in Idaho. Here are the dove species names- Mourning Dove, White-winged Dove, and Eurasian-collared Dove.
Let’s discover the fascinating world of doves in Idaho.
1. Mourning Dove
Mourning Doves are the most common doves in Hawaii, Idaho, Florida, and Michigan as well as in other parts of America.
The mourning dove is a common and lovely bird found all around Idaho. You can spot them in different places like fields, woods, and even in cities.
These birds have medium-sized, gray bodies with a touch of pink on their chests, and they’re known for their unique black-spotted wings.
When they fly, they make a sweet whistling sound that’s quite special.
Mourning doves feel at home in fields, woods, and even in busy cities. They’re quite adaptable!
In summer, you might hear their gentle cooing sounds. They love munching on seeds found on the ground. Sometimes, they go on journeys to different places.
Hunting Time: People are allowed to hunt these birds during certain times, usually from September to September 30 in Idaho. But hunters need special permission and the right gear.
Mourning doves come to Idaho during spring, just in time for the nice weather. They make their nests from May to July and lay two white eggs. In about 15 days after hatching, their young ones take their first flights.
Tips for Spotting Them: If you want to see these doves, check out fields and parks. You might even see them around agricultural fields when they’re migrating. They might also come to your yard if you:
- Plant birdseed like millet or cracked corn.
- Put up a birdbath or fountain so they can drink and splash around.
- Set up a cozy nesting box for them.
- Make sure your yard is safe for them by keeping away animals like cats and dogs.
Mourning doves are not just beautiful; they’re also gentle and peaceful birds. If they visit your yard, take a moment to appreciate their company. Watching them can be a real delight!
2. White-winged Dove
The White-winged Dove is a special dove species that you can find in certain parts of Idaho. Let’s learn more about this unique and beautiful creature.
White-winged Doves are known for their striking appearance. They have grayish bodies with white patches on their wings, which stand out beautifully. These doves are larger than some other doves, making them quite impressive to see.
You might spot White-winged Doves in places like southern Idaho. They like to hang out in urban areas, parks, and sometimes even in open woodlands. They have a knack for adapting to different environments.
White-winged doves are pretty common dove species in Arizona.
These doves make gentle cooing sounds that can be quite soothing. They enjoy munching on seeds and fruits, which are their favorite foods.
White-winged Doves are not native to Idaho; they’re actually from the southern parts of North America. They’ve managed to make their home in certain places, like Idaho, over time.
In Idaho, specific rules and regulations apply if you’re interested in hunting White-winged wolves. It’s important to follow these rules and get the right permits to ensure their conservation.
If you’re lucky enough to see White-winged Doves in your area, take a moment to appreciate their beauty and uniqueness. These doves can add a touch of wonder to the natural world around us.
3. Eurasian-collared Dove
The Eurasian Collared-Dove is a dove species you might see in Georgia. Meet the Eurasian-Collared Dove, a special bird that’s not originally from Idaho but has become a part of it.
These doves are slightly bigger than others, with a light gray body and a black “collar” around their necks.
You can find them in towns, parks, gardens, and fields—they’re quite good at living near people. You might hear them making their repetitive cooing sounds, which are pretty soothing.
Eurasian Collared Doves are the most common doves in Alaska.
What’s interesting is that they’re from faraway places but have managed to fit right in here. If you’re curious about hunting them, remember to follow the rules.
By appreciating these doves and letting them share our space, we can enjoy their uniqueness and contribute to the balance of our natural world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, doves in Idaho are beautiful birds that are important to nature. They help spread seeds and are food for other animals. You can see them in many places, like cities and the countryside. Watching doves can help you feel closer to nature. By protecting these birds, we can make sure they stay a part of Idaho’s wildlife for a long time.
