Outwardly calm, the Mourning Dove is actually a nervous species related to the Pigeon. Somewhat camouflaged by its plumage, the Mourning Dove has two modes of defensive behavior: freeze and bolt.

Mourning Doves eat primarily seeds and feed mainly on the ground. Unlike most native songbirds, young Doves drink a softened diet from their parents' crops (neck pouches for holding food). Nestlings are covered with string-like down, and have rosy legs which turn darker red as they age. Doves typically nest in pine trees, and the nest consists of a few twigs that are loosely arranged.

This young bird was picked up in a yard and could not be returned to its parents. Happily, it was successfully rehabilitated and released.