African Mourning Dove

Afrikaans name: Rooioogtortelduif

African Mourning Doves have a sad sounding call

Photo © Steven Herbert

Streptopelia decipiens

The African Mourning Dove is similar to the Red-eyed Dove but not at all common. It is, however, common within the small areas where it is found. I have always found Satara Camp, in Kruger National Park, a good place to see them.

This dove mainly feeds on seeds but does eat a small amount of fruit and termite alates. The African Mourning Dove is normally seen strolling around on the ground looking for food.

It gets its common name from it rather sad sounding call. They grow to about 31 cm in length.

The African Mourning Dove makes its nest in the fork of a tree. Either 1 or 2 eggs are laid.

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References and further reading

A First Guide to South African Birds - 7th Edition - Author: Leonard Gill - Year Published: 1975 - Page: 115

Animals of the Kruger National Park - Author: G. de Graaff - Year Published: 1987 - Page: 79

Collins Illustrated Checklist - Birds of Southern Africa - 1st edition - Author: Ber van Perlo - Year Published: 1999 - Page: 37

Field Guide to the Birds of Kruger National Park - Author: Ian Sinclair and Ian Whyte - Year Published: 1991 - Page: 100

Roberts' Birds of Southern Africa - 5th Edition - Author: Gordon Lindsay Maclean - Year Published: 1985 - Page: 307

Roberts' Birds of Southern Africa - 6th Edition - Author: Gordon Lindsay Maclean - Year Published: 1993 - Page: 303

Sasol Birds of Southern Africa - 4th Edition - Author: Ian Sinclair et al. - Year Published: 2011 - Page: 224

The Doves, Parrots, Louries & Cuckoos of Southern Africa - Author: M.K. Rowan - Year Published: 1983 - Page: 59

List of South African Birds