Gary Helm
"Eurasian Collared Dove"
A Eurasian species introduced to the Bahamas, which spread to Florida in the late 1970s. It was quickly established there, then spread westward in the 1990s, and it has now reached the Pacific coast. The population is anticipated to increase and spread northward into Canada. Its westward expansion follows a similar expansion from its original range in Asia all the way to the Atlantic coast of Europe. Breeding: nest is a flimsy construction of twigs placed in trees, particularly palm trees, but occasionally on man made structures; normally 2 white eggs, occasionally more; 3 to 6 broods a year from the same nest. Migration: not a migrant in the true sense, in that individuals are not known to return to breeding or wintering grounds. But individuals move great distances, thus enabling the species to quickly expand its range across North America.
A fairly recent arrival to North America, this large pale dove can now be found across the United States. It flaps on broad wings, and often soars briefly, with wings extended slightly above horizontal as it seemingly floats down to a landing. Polytypic. Length 12.5".
Found this one in my backyard. Polk County, Florida.
"Eurasian Collared Dove"
A Eurasian species introduced to the Bahamas, which spread to Florida in the late 1970s. It was quickly established there, then spread westward in the 1990s, and it has now reached the Pacific coast. The population is anticipated to increase and spread northward into Canada. Its westward expansion follows a similar expansion from its original range in Asia all the way to the Atlantic coast of Europe. Breeding: nest is a flimsy construction of twigs placed in trees, particularly palm trees, but occasionally on man made structures; normally 2 white eggs, occasionally more; 3 to 6 broods a year from the same nest. Migration: not a migrant in the true sense, in that individuals are not known to return to breeding or wintering grounds. But individuals move great distances, thus enabling the species to quickly expand its range across North America.
A fairly recent arrival to North America, this large pale dove can now be found across the United States. It flaps on broad wings, and often soars briefly, with wings extended slightly above horizontal as it seemingly floats down to a landing. Polytypic. Length 12.5".
Found this one in my backyard. Polk County, Florida.