For the past six weeks I have had an unusual dove feeding daily for long
periods on my window feeder. The bird looks in all respects like a regular
Mourning Dove except for a hook bill. As far as behavior, it is unusual
for a dove in that:
1. It is unafraid. Most doves flush when they see movement near the
window. It remains and one can come right up to the window and watch it.
2. It is very aggressive and chases off any other doves that land on
the feeder. It tolerates chickadees, nuthatches and titmice.
3. It does not fly with or apparently roost with other doves. It
always seems to be by itself.
4. It uses a strange sweeping motion with its bill when it feeds
sometimes, reminiscent of a spoonbill.
5. It eats suet that has been crumbled.
Initially I thought this bird might be the first North American visit of
the rare South American Snail Dove, but I am now thinking that it may just be
the sociabilis subspecies of the Mourning Dove. Documentation
description and photo have previously been sent to Phil Davis and photo will be sent
off line to anyone who requests.
Bob Mumford
Darnestown |