Fast and Agile Flyers – Mourning Doves are surprisingly fast, capable of reaching speeds up to 55 mph in flight. 

Long-Distance Travelers – Mourning Doves migrate in the fall, with some traveling over 1,000 miles to their wintering grounds in the southern U.S. and Mexico. However, some stay year-round in warmer climates.

Efficient Water Drinkers – Unlike most birds that sip and then tilt their heads back, Mourning Doves can drink water by sucking it up directly—a rare ability in the bird world!

Symbolism in Different Cultures – Throughout history, Mourning Doves have been seen as symbols of peace, love, and remembrance. Their soft, sorrowful cooing is often associated with tranquility.

A Short but Busy Life – Though their average lifespan in the wild is about 1.5 years, some Mourning Doves have been recorded living over 30 years in captivity! Their high reproductive rate helps keep their population stable.