White-winged Dove
A warm-region dove that now commonly uses towns and large yards where shade trees, seed, water, and safe windows are available.
By Birdly Yard Editorial TeamReviewed Updated
Local season
Months with a state-level historical signal for this species.
Status
Backyard reports
Look for it
Look on the ground, at elevated feeders, in large shade trees, and near water in southern towns, desert edges, and suburbs.
Food
Large seeds, berries, fruit, cactus resources, and other plant material, with calcium-rich items used during breeding.
Nesting
Natural nesting guidance
One useful next step
Build for the habitat, not just the feeder.
Desert thickets and cactus communities as well as towns with large shade trees, open feeding areas, and nearby water.
See the yard actionsA good yard is layered
Food helps, but cover, clean water, native plants, and a safe distance from hazards make a more dependable place for birds.
White-winged Dove habitat
Desert thickets and cactus communities as well as towns with large shade trees, open feeding areas, and nearby water.
White-winged Dove diet and food
Large seeds, berries, fruit, cactus resources, and other plant material, with calcium-rich items used during breeding.
It often uses elevated sunflower, milo, corn, safflower, and berry-bearing shrubs; clean up spilled seed to limit rodents.
How to attract it
Food & feeder
Large seeds, berries, fruit, cactus resources, and other plant material, with calcium-rich items used during breeding.
Cover & plants
Desert thickets and cactus communities as well as towns with large shade trees, open feeding areas, and nearby water.
White-winged Dove nesting and breeding
Builds a loose twig bowl under heavy shade in a large tree or dense woodland, often near an open feeding area.
White-winged Dove behavior and where to look
Forages on branches and the ground, flies in a swift straight line, and uses calls and wing displays around nesting areas.
Photography
Use a bird-safe window or a calm water source, keeping a respectful distance from a shaded nesting tree.
What to avoid
Make nearby glass visible to birds, especially because startled doves can strike windows.
Continue exploring
Explore related bird guides
Compare food, habitat and nesting. Local seasonal records vary by species.
