South · Atlantic Flyway

Mourning Dove in South Carolina

Zenaida macrouraColumbidae

CommonAbundance
Summer breederSeasonal status
12Active months

About Mourning Dove in South Carolina

Mourning Doves prefer open feeding areas and take seed from the ground or broad trays. Clean ground-feeding areas, native seed plants, nearby trees, and accessible water suit their habits.

In South Carolina, this species is classified as common. It visits during the breeding season, typically spring through summer. The best months to observe this bird are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.

Monthly Activity — Mourning Dove in South Carolina

Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
RegularSeasonalRare

Identification

Colorstan, gray, black
Size23–34 cm
Habitatopen woodland, farm, suburb, garden
FamilyColumbidae

Best Time to See Mourning Dove in South Carolina

January
Active
February
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March
Active
April
Active
May
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June
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July
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August
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September
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October
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November
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December
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Other birds in South Carolina

Birds you might also encounter in South Carolina.

Mourning Dove in other states

Mourning Dove in South Carolina: Quick Facts

The Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) is a common bird in South Carolina. It is classified as a summer breeder in the state, falling within the South region and the Atlantic Flyway migration corridor.

Preferred habitats include open woodland, farm, suburb, garden. The best months to spot this species in South Carolina are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December. For birders in Charleston and throughout South Carolina, knowing the seasonal patterns of Mourning Dove can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.

year-round in much of the United States; northern birds migrate. Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in South Carolina using the related birds section.