Doves in Florida: Beautiful Species & Tips for Attracting Them (2025)

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You’ll find five main doves in Florida: Mourning Doves with their soft cooing calls, invasive Eurasian Collared-Doves sporting distinctive neck rings, tiny Ground Doves that prefer open spaces, White-winged Doves with their striking wing stripes, and adaptable Rock Pigeons in urban areas.

Each species has unique traits – Mourning Doves can raise six broods yearly, while Ground Doves form monogamous pairs.

Want these peaceful birds visiting your yard? Try offering sunflower seeds, native plants, and fresh water.

Just remember to skip the pesticides that might harm these gentle visitors.

Their distinctive calls might become the soundtrack to your mornings.

Doves and Pigeons Found in Florida

Florida is home to a fascinating variety of doves and pigeons, each with unique markings and habits.

You’ll spot everything from the peaceful Mourning Dove to the striking Eurasian Collared-Dove in both urban and natural settings.

Mourning Dove

Mourning Doves, one of the most graceful Florida dove species, are a delight to spot year-round.

Their soft cooing, known as Mourning Dove Calls, adds charm to any backyard.

These prolific breeders raise up to six broods annually, often in flimsy nesting sites like trees or shrubs.

You’ll find them perched on wires or flocking together.

Their feather patterns—grayish-brown with pale undersides—are subtle yet elegant.

Attract them with seeds, and enjoy their peaceful presence daily!

Rock Pigeon

Rock Pigeons, the ultimate urban birds, are a staple among dove species in Florida.

Their plump bodies and shimmering feather colors make them hard to miss. With a versatile Rock Pigeon diet—seeds, crumbs, or anything edible—they thrive in cities.

They typically have a short lifespan in the wild, averaging around 2.4 years. Their unique beak structure helps them adapt, while their bustling flocks bring life to parks.

Unlike other pigeon species, they’ve mastered survival among Florida’s vibrant bird species.

Eurasian Collared-Dove

The Eurasian Collared-Dove, an invasive species, stands out among doves in Florida with its sandy-brown feathers and distinctive black neck ring.

Known for its rapid population growth, this adaptable bird thrives in urban areas, often outcompeting native dove species.

Its diet and habitat preferences make it a frequent visitor to backyard feeders.

• Expanding rapidly across Florida
• Prefers seeds and suburban life
• Recognizable “koo-KOO-kook” call
• Common among Florida birds

Common Ground Dove

The Common Ground Dove is one of the tiniest dove species you’ll spot in Florida.

With muted brownish-gray feathers and chestnut wing tones, these sparrow-sized birds often blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

Ground doves in Florida favor open spaces and urban gardens, sticking close to the ground where they forage for seeds and grains.

Their soft dove coos, though high-pitched and repetitive, carry a surprising volume.

These charming ground-dwellers are monogamous nesters but face threats like cats and window strikes.

Among the many types of doves in Florida, the Common Ground Dove adds a quiet, unassuming beauty to the landscape, with its presence being a notable aspect of the state’s wildlife, making it a bird of surprising volume and a species that is charming.

White-winged Dove

Spot a dove with a striking white wing stripe and a bold black cheek spot? That’s the White-winged Dove, a star among Florida birds.

These social beauties frequent feeders and belt their “who cooks for you” tune.

Distinguishing Mourning Doves and Ground Doves

You’ll need to examine the size, coloration, and behavior of doves to distinguish between Mourning Doves and Ground Doves.

By looking at characteristics like wing spots, tail length, and plumage color, you can tell these similar species apart.

Size and Appearance

When spotting Florida doves, body size and tail length are key.

Mourning Doves flaunt sleek wings and long tails, gliding gracefully. Meanwhile, the Common Ground Dove is sparrow-sized with a stubby tail.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Species	Body Size	Bill Shape	Wing Markings	Tail Length
Mourning Dove	Medium	Slender	Black spots	Long, pointed
Common Ground Dove	Small	Short	Chestnut tones	Short, compact
White-winged Dove	Medium	Slender	White edges	Medium
Rock Pigeon	Large	Thick	Two black bars	Medium
Eurasian Collared-Dove	Medium-large	Slender	Plain gray	Long, rounded

These plumage patterns and features make backyard birdwatching a joy.

Understanding dove species characteristics is essential for accurate identification and appreciation of these birds.

Coloration

Mourning doves flaunt soft gray plumage with bold black wing markings, while the Common Ground Dove keeps it understated with brown feather patterns and a pinkish blush underneath.

Their colors blend seamlessly into Florida’s landscapes, making them tricky to spot.

Pro tip: Mourning doves have a sleek, elegant look, while ground doves’ sparrow-like size and short tail colors set them apart.

Behavior and Habitat

Mourning doves and ground doves might share Florida skies, but their dove behavior sets them apart in fascinating ways.

Each has unique nesting sites, food sources, and roosting behavior that reflect their distinct lifestyles.

• Feeding preferences: Mourning doves prefer open fields for seeds, while ground doves stick to shrubs for protection.
• Nesting sites: Mourning doves nest high in trees; ground doves stay low to the ground.
• Flight styles: Mourning doves glide gracefully; ground doves prefer quick, low bursts.
• Social interactions: Mourning doves flock in groups; ground doves are more solitary.
• Predator strategies: Mourning doves rely on speed; ground doves use camouflage.

Watching these behaviors is like uncovering nature’s secrets!

The Advantages of Having Doves in Your Yard

You can enjoy several benefits by having doves in your yard, including their peaceful nature and attractive appearance.

By attracting doves, you’ll create a welcoming environment that supports local wildlife and adds to your yard’s natural beauty.

Attracting Doves to Bird Feeders

You can attract doves with millet and safflower seeds in low feeders.

Place feeders near water sources for doves in Florida.

Providing the right bird feeding station is essential for attracting these birds.

Seed	Feeder	Water
Millet	Low	Nearby
Safflower	Sturdy	Fresh
Sunflower	High	Distant

Benefits of Dove Presence

So, you’ve got the feeders out—great! But why invite these gentle flutterers? Doves contribute to Florida ecosystems in amazing ways. They’re not just pretty faces; they’re tiny ecological superheroes!

• Seed dispersal champions
• Natural pest control
• Ecosystem balance boosters
• Biodiversity supporters
• Enhance natural beauty

Doves are more than just visitors; they’re essential components of healthy dove habitats and contribute to bird conservation efforts. Their presence enriches Florida ecosystems. Supporting dove species helps maintain the vibrant tapestry of wildlife.

To attract these birds, using proper dove feeders is essential for creating a welcoming environment. This helps ensure that doves feel at home, which is crucial for their well-being and for maintaining the vibrant tapestry of wildlife.

Considerations for Dove-Friendly Yards

To create a dove-friendly yard, consider their needs.

Provide seeds, grains, and berries in ground feeders. Incorporate native plants, like evergreen shrubs, for nesting sites.

Make sure access to water sources, such as a birdbath. Maintain a bird-friendly yard layout with quiet spots for roosting, supporting Florida’s dove species and their breeding habits.

Using the right bird feeding options can also enhance the dove-friendly environment.

The Rise and Fall of Mourning Doves in Florida

You’re likely wondering what’s behind the fluctuating numbers of Mourning Doves in Florida.

As you explore the state’s dove population, you’ll discover that it’s a story of decline, with factors like habitat loss and climate change contributing to the drop in numbers.

Mourning Dove Population Decline

Those peaceful coos you hear across Florida’s landscapes might soon be a thing of the past.

Experts are concerned about a slight but steady decline in the Mourning Dove population over the last three generations.

Here are three challenges facing these graceful birds:

1. They’re losing their homes as urban development takes over their natural habitats.
2. Pesticide use reduces their food sources, making it harder to survive.
3. Climate change throws their breeding patterns out of whack, impacting the next generation.

While Mourning Doves are still abundant nationwide, with a population of 300-500 million, local numbers in Florida are a cause for concern.

It’s time to step up and help these gentle birds through conservation efforts. Understanding their medium sized doves characteristics can inform strategies to protect them.

Factors Contributing to Population Changes

You face challenges like habitat loss and climate change, affecting dove species in Florida, including food sources and predation, disease, and dove migration patterns, breeding habits, and hunting regulations impacting bird populations.

To attract doves, consider using bird food blends that meet their dietary needs.

Factor	Impact
Habitat Loss	Reduced
Climate Change	Disrupts
Food Sources	Limited
Predation	Increased
Disease	Risks

Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts for Florida’s doves merge science with community action.

The state’s wildlife conservation programs have successfully protected nine state parks from development in 2024, while habitat preservation initiatives continue expanding.

You’ll find meaningful ways to contribute through population monitoring programs like dove banding, which provides critical migration data.

Transform your outdoor space by planting native species that offer shelter and sustenance.

Join local citizen science projects to help track population changes – your efforts directly influence policy advocacy and species protection.

Together, these conservation initiatives safeguard our cherished dove populations for generations to come, through community action.

Mourning Dove Breeding and Nesting Habits

You’ll find that mourning doves are nature’s most dedicated parents, as they’ll build simple nests and raise up to six broods of chicks each year in Florida’s warm climate.

When you watch these gentle birds, you’ll notice both parents share equal responsibility in building the nest, incubating the eggs, and feeding their young with nutritious "crop milk.

They are truly dedicated parents, and their unique parenting style is a wonder to observe.

Prolific Breeding Cycles

Florida doves showcase remarkable breeding frequency throughout the year, with mourning doves leading the pack in reproductive success.

While most birds take seasonal breaks, these determined parents maintain active nests every month in the Sunshine State.

You’ll find these devoted birds producing an impressive 3-6 broods per season, with each pair potentially raising up to 12 chicks annually.

Here’s what makes Florida doves such successful breeders:

1. They start their families young, with doves beginning to breed at just three months old
2. Their breeding season extends year-round, adapting to Florida’s warm climate
3. Environmental factors like abundant food sources and suitable nesting spots support their high clutch size

The nestling survival rate remains remarkably high, thanks to their dedicated parenting approach.

Nesting Behavior

While mourning doves breed year-round, their nesting behavior follows a simple pattern.

You’ll find their modest twig platforms nestled in tree crotches, typically 5-25 feet high.

Dove breeding habits are remarkably efficient—pairs construct nests in just hours.

During the 14-day egg incubation period, both parents share warming duties, and dove nesting in Florida continues through multiple broods annually, with the same nest location often reused.

The modest twig platforms are a key part of their nesting behavior.

Parental Care and Feeding of Young

Once the nest is complete, the real teamwork begins. Among doves found in Florida, parental roles showcase remarkable dedication.

Sometimes mourning doves abandon nests, but often return when conditions improve. Both parents produce nutritious crop milk through hormonal changes about two days before eggs hatch.

• Nestling development depends entirely on this milky substance (unique to pigeons, doves, flamingos, and emperor penguins) for the first week
• Parents take turns letting squabs push their heads into their crops to drink this specialized secretion
• Fledgling care gradually progresses to seeds after day 6, with complete adult diet by day 10
• Both males and females share feeding duties equally throughout the 11-15 day development period

You’ll find this extraordinary parental commitment across all dove species in Florida. For more information about abandoned baby doves, visit this helpful resource about dove nests.

The Versatile and Adaptable Rock Pigeon

You’ll find Rock Pigeons with their distinctive gray backs and iridescent black feathers thriving in Florida’s urban landscapes, adapting remarkably well to human environments.

These versatile birds, characterized by their blue-grey heads and two black wing bars, will visit your feeders regularly if you offer them seeds, demonstrating their successful coexistence with humans throughout history, which is a testament to their ability to thrive in various environments with iridescent black feathers.

History of Rock Pigeons and Humans

While nesting doves care for their young, the Rock Pigeon shares an ancient bond with humans that stretches back 5,000 years.

These remarkable bird species were first domesticated for message-carrying – with evidence dating to 2500 B.C. . You’ll spot descendants of these historical companions throughout Florida today, carrying the legacy of birds that once served as war messengers across civilizations.

The domestication journey of pigeons transformed them from wild rock doves into valued partners. Their roles expanded beyond communication to include pigeon racing, food sources, and religious symbols.

The feral populations of pigeons in Florida today descended from domesticated birds that arrived with English colonists in the 17th century, giving these birds their unique symbolic meaning in human history.

Thriving in Urban Environments

Rock pigeons have mastered urban survival in Florida’s cities.

Building on their ancient cliff-dwelling instincts, they’ve transformed concrete structures into perfect habitats.

You’ll spot these resilient doves throughout Florida’s metropolitan areas, showcasing their ability to adapt to human activity and concrete structures.

Interactions With Bird Feeders

As dawn breaks, these platform-loving pigeons arrive first at your Florida backyard feeders, especially favoring cracked corn and milo seeds.

You’ll notice their adaptable feeding habits—gathering beneath hanging feeders or flocking to platform types.

For best feeder placement, select quiet spots away from competitor interactions.

These backyard birds visit with predictable feeding frequency, happily consuming whatever bird seeds you offer.

The Invasive Eurasian Collared-Dove

You’ll spot Eurasian Collared-Doves by their distinctive black half-collar and gray-brown plumage as they’ve rapidly expanded across Florida since their introduction in the 1980s.

These adaptable birds now compete with native dove species for resources, potentially impacting local ecosystems through their aggressive population growth.

Adaptability and Population Growth

While Rock Pigeons thrive in cities, the Eurasian Collared-Dove has written an even more impressive Florida success story.

These doves in Florida began as occasional Bahamas visitors in 1980 but quickly established themselves as permanent residents. Their exceptional habitat range now spans from busy Miami streets to quiet suburban gardens, showcasing remarkable diet flexibility and breeding success.

You’ll notice their distinctive sandy-brown plumage and black collar as they demonstrate impressive predator avoidance skills across Florida wildlife environments.

Their population surged to 100,000 birds in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties alone by the early 1990s, highlighting their masterful human interaction abilities. The birds’ year-round presence and adaptable nature have helped them establish strong populations in various bird habitats, from coastal areas to inland regions.

Making them a fascinating example of successful adaptation, the Eurasian Collared-Dove’s ability to thrive in different environments is a notable aspect of their presence in Florida.

Impact on Native Dove Species

Florida’s native doves face increasing competition from their adaptable cousins, the Eurasian Collared-Doves. These non-native birds first appeared in Florida during the 1980s and have steadily reshaped local ecosystems.

You’ll notice their impact particularly in suburban areas, where they outcompete mourning doves for food and shelter. At your backyard feeder, you might spot more of these pale gray birds with distinctive black neck rings replacing familiar native species.

Their presence raises concerns about habitat loss and potential disease transmission among Florida wildlife. The competition affects various types of doves in Florida, especially in urban and agricultural settings where resources are limited.

While these newcomers haven’t caused widespread hybridization with native species, their growing numbers continue to influence population dynamics across the state, leading to changes in the environment and potentially affecting native species in significant ways, which is a concern for wildlife conservation.

Conservation Efforts for Florida’s Dove Species

You’ll find several practical ways to protect Florida’s native dove species through local wildlife organizations and habitat preservation efforts.

By maintaining native plants in your yard and keeping your cats indoors, you’re already helping these graceful birds thrive in your neighborhood.

Supporting Wildlife Organizations

While supporting local wildlife organizations may seem small, your contributions make a huge impact on dove conservation. These dedicated groups work tirelessly to protect Florida ecosystems through research, advocacy, and hands-on efforts.

Your support, whether through partnerships, education initiatives, or advocacy work, helps create lasting change for Florida wildlife. Together, we’re building a brighter future for our beloved doves.

Habitat Preservation and Native Plants

While supporting local wildlife groups matters, your backyard can become a sanctuary for Florida doves.

Create welcoming spaces by planting native species that provide food and shelter. You can find native Florida wildlife plants to support these efforts.

Here’s what works best:

Native Plant	Dove Benefit
Beautyberry	Food source
Wild Coffee	Natural cover
Coontie	Ground shelter
Muhly Grass	Nesting material
Firebush	Protection

Your native plant gardens help form important wildlife corridors, letting doves move safely between fragmented habitats while enhancing local Florida ecosystems.

Responsible Pet Ownership and Education

While cultivating native plants creates safe spaces, your role as a pet owner directly impacts local dove species.

Cats remain one of the greatest threats to Florida doves, with outdoor felines responsible for millions of bird deaths annually.

Protect our feathered Floridians through responsible pet ownership:

1. Keep cats indoors or use supervised outdoor enclosures
2. Install bird-safe window decals to prevent collisions
3. Support local wildlife rehabilitation centers that care for injured doves
4. Educate neighbors about ethical dove care and Florida’s legal requirements

Did you know? Species of doves found in Florida can’t digest pasta, despite common misconceptions. Owner education about proper feeding habits helps doves in Florida maintain healthy diets while visiting your yard.

Your small actions make a tremendous difference in dove conservation, and by taking these steps, you contribute to the well-being of feathered Floridians, ensuring they thrive in their natural habitat with healthy diets and safe environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)