A mourning dove is a type of dove that is commonly found in North America. On the other hand, a turtle dove is a small, plump dove native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. Though Mourning Dove and Turtle Dove have many similarities, a morning dove is not a turtle dove.
Have a closer look at how these two species of doves are different from one another:
| Feature | Mourning Dove | Turtle Dove |
| Size | Medium | Small |
| Body shape | Slender | Plump |
| Tail shape | Pointed | Rounded |
| Call | Coo | “Turr-turr” |
| Range | North America | Europe, Asia, Africa |
Overall, while the mourning dove and the turtle dove are members of the same family of birds (Columbidae), they are distinct species with different physical characteristics and ranges.
Similarities between mourning doves and turtle doves:
| Feature | Mourning Dove | Turtle Dove |
| Family | Columbidae | Columbidae |
| Shape of beak | Conical | Conical |
| Feet and legs | Zygodactyl | Zygodactyl |
| Nesting habits | Tree cavity or platform nest | Tree cavity or platform nest |
| Diet | Seeds, fruits, insects | Seeds, fruits, insects |
As members of the same family of birds (Columbidae), mourning doves and turtle doves share many similarities. Both have conical beaks and zygodactyl feet (two toes facing forward and two toes facing backward), and they prefer to nest in tree cavities or on platform nests. Regarding diet, mourning doves and turtle doves primarily feed on seeds, fruits, and insects.
Why are mourning Doves called turtle doves?
Morning doves are called turtle doves because people confuse to identify between two species.
It is possible that the two names may have become confused or conflated at some point in the past, but the mourning dove and the turtle dove are separate and distinct species of birds. While both have similar names and physical features, their calls are different, and they inhabit different regions.
However, the scientific name for the mourning dove, Zenaida macroura, is derived from the Greek words zenaides (turtledove) and maiora (longer). So while they are not turtle doves, their name was derived from this association.
Ultimately, the confusion between the two names comes down to the similarities between their physical features. Both species have pointed tails, grayish-brown bodies, and black spots on their wings. So when people see a mourning dove resembling a turtledove, it is easy to see how the two names may have confused them.
Regardless of the confusion in their names, mourning doves and turtledoves are both beautiful birds that grace our skies. They may look similar, but their distinct calls remind us of their differences.
Are there turtle doves in the united states?
Turtle doves are not commonly found in the United States. They are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa and are not commonly found in North America.
If you see a turtle dove in the United States, it is likely that it has been introduced to the area as a non-native species or imported from another country.
It is also possible that the bird you are seeing is a mourning dove, a common dove found in North America and is often mistaken for a turtle dove due to their similar appearance and calls.
Turtle doves VS pigeons: comparing the difference
Here is a table comparing the differences between turtle doves and pigeons:
| Feature | Turtle Dove | Pigeon |
| Family | Columbidae | Columbidae |
| Size | Small | Medium to Large |
| Body shape | Plump | Rounded |
| Tail shape | Rounded | Rounded |
| Call | “Turr-turr” | Cooing |
| Range | Europe, Asia, Africa | Worldwide |
While turtle doves and pigeons are members of the same family of birds (Columbidae), they are distinct species with some notable differences. Turtle doves are smaller and have a plumper body shape, while pigeons are larger and have a more rounded body shape.
Turtle doves are also known for their distinctive “turr-turr” call, while pigeons are known for their cooing sounds. Regarding range, turtle doves are primarily found in Europe, Asia, and Africa, while pigeons are found worldwide. Read my another article about turtle dove symbolism.
Did I answer everything you need to know about is a Mourning Dove a Turtle Dove?
while mourning doves and turtle doves are members of the same family of birds, they are distinct species with some notable differences. Turtle doves are smaller and have a plumper body shape, while pigeons are larger and have a more rounded body shape.
Turtle doves have their distinct call, while pigeons coo. Regarding range, turtle doves are primarily found in Europe, Asia, and Africa, while pigeons can be found worldwide. Knowing the difference between these two species is important as they inform us about their habitats and behaviors. Knowing the difference helps us appreciate the beauty of both species so we can protect them from extinction. Bottom of Form