Have you ever asked yourself what is so unique about doves in Arkansas? Arizona is home to different species of wildlife including the doves that are a part of it. Their soft coos and gentle flight makes them unique to the wildlife of Arkansas.
Dove lovers, Arkansas provides a complete package for nature lovers, hunters, and dove lovers due to the southern mourning dove’s stunning melodies and the diverse regions they occupy.
Whether you’re an avid bird watcher or a hunter, rest assured that this guide covers everything about the doves in Arkansas right from their classification and behavioral patterns to their habitats, hunting season, and conservation activities.
“The Dove, with its soft and plaintive note, brings peace to the heart and reminds us of nature’s gentle harmony.” — John James Audubon
Key Takeaways:
- Diverse Species: Arkansas is home to several dove species, with the mourning dove being the most common.
- Prime Habitats: Doves thrive in Arkansas’s farmlands, woodlands, and suburban areas.
- Hunting Opportunities: Arkansas offers regulated dove hunting seasons, attracting sportsmen nationwide.
- Conservation Efforts: Local initiatives ensure dove populations remain healthy and sustainable.
- Birdwatching Hotspots: Discover the best places in Arkansas to observe doves in their natural habitats.
Understanding Doves in Arkansas – Every Thing You Need To Know:
The Columbidae family encompasses doves with their distinct small-sized heads and necks along with athletic flying skills. In Arkansas, these birds are loved for their calm demeanor and gentleness. The state hosts several species, each with unique traits and behaviors.
Most of the common types include Mourning doves, White-winged doves, and Eurasian collared doves. Wyoming features these birds as some versatile species that span from rural fields to urban backyards.
Why Is Dove Arkansas A Heaven For Doves?
Arkansas features a variety of terrains. Huge farmlands, dense centuries-old untouched forests, and open peaceful isolated prairies allow ideal feeding and nesting areas. These areas generate optimal outcomes for the doves. The state’s mild atmosphere boosts its population for a long time while migratory patterns introduce seasonal variation.
Doves mainly thrive on small insects, seeds, and grains which are the supercharged regions of Arkansas. The winning resources of food combined with great regions of shelter guarantee peace for the state’s sprawling wildlife.
Common Dove Species – Types Of Doves in Arkansas:
The primary species are Mourning Dove, White-Winged Dove, Eurasian Collared-Dove Rock Pigeon, and CCC less popular Common Ground-Dove. I will elaborate on these bird types of Arkansas concentrating on their appearance, habits, significance to their locality, and region where they are spotted.
Mourning Doves of Arkansas – Zenaida macroura:
In Arkansas, Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura) are considered the most iconic dove species due to their distinctive features. These slender birds measure 9-13 inches long and are graceful in size and flight. The conical shape of the mourning doves distinguishes them along with their sharp tail feathers.
There are spots of black on their wings as well as soft brown plumage that allows them to blend in and be camouflaged. Their head is small and dome-like in shape while their eyes are delicate and dark which provides them a rather tender look. When in flight, the wings produce a distinctive whistling sound.
Behavior and Vocalizations of Mourning Doves:
These doves are famously known for their soulful cooing. Their unique sounds can be described as: “coo-oo, coo, coo”. While the wy males sing, they sing while standing on twigs, fences and posts. These doves are seen moving in groups and their social assortment is diagnosed as a flock. In terms of sustenance, these doves feed on grains or seeds.
These doves are a breed of doves and up to six pairs of these doves are reared each year. Both the mother and father provide support to the chicks.
Habitat and Distribution of Mourning Doves:
Mourning Doves are attracted to open areas such as fields and likewise contextual farmlands. They can survive in both suburban and urban environments with feeders. There is greenery and shrubby trees which allow for reproduction and bliss. In the Delta region, these doves are abundant in quantitative measures.
There are lower areas that consist of trees and other extensive wood resources that are likewise surrounded by rivers which assist in the roosting for these doves. During other seasons these doves stay in Arkansas but fly to other parts of the region during winter.
Key Traits of Mourning Doves:
- Size: 9-13 inches.
- Color: Light brown with black wing spots.
- Call: Mournful “coo-oo” sound.
- Habitat: Farmlands, suburbs, woodlands.
Southern Visitor – White-Winged Dove:
In Arkansas, the White-Winged Dove (Zenaida asiatica) is being more frequently observed, although the species is still regarded as uncommon. Their length ranges from 10 to 12 inches. A bold white patch on their wings is perhaps their most striking characteristic. Their body is gray-brown washed. Their eyes are enhanced with a blue eye-ring. Compared to Mourning Doves, their tails are relatively shorter.
Behavior and Feeding Habits:
These doves feed on seeds, fruit, and grains. Their backyards are eclectic feeders so they are quite easy to spot. Their call is deep “who-cooks-for-you.” They are gregarious in nature. Flocks tend to congregate in open fields and beside water bodies. They breed during the warmer months in Arkansas. Their nests are robust and are constructed in cacti or trees.
In general, White-Winged Doves prefer the southern region of Arkansas. Although their breeding range is expanding further up north. They mostly prefer open woodlands and agricultural fields. Urban regions with bird feeders attract them. They are more abundant in the summer while they migrate south in winter.
Why White-Winged Doves Are Unique?
- Prefer warmer climates but adapt to Arkansas.
- Often seen at feeders with millet or corn.
- Expanding range due to habitat changes.
Eurasian Collared-Dove Facts:
| Trait | Description |
| Size | 12-14 inches |
| Marking | Black neck collar |
| Habitat | Urban areas, farms |
| Status | Non-native, widespread |
Rock Pigeon – The City Dweller:
Pigeons or Rock Pigeons (Columba livia) as they are referred to in professional ornithology, They are commonplace in Arkansas. Their length is around 12 to 14 inches. Their color is also varied gray, white or iridescent. Broad wings and short tails are typical of these birds.
Their small beaks are adapted to seed-eating. They don’t hop when walking; rather, they waddle.
Behavior Patterns:
Pigeons live up to their name, as they coo quietly with each other, more commonly in small or larger groups. Flocks of them prefer grains, various scraps, or human food. They like to gather in large groups at city squares, where they can find easy meals.
Feeding occurs communally in big flocks, as they forage around the cities looking for food. The nesting is done on buildings, walls, or cliff sides. These birds breed all year because of adaptability reasons as they very rarely migrate.
Urban and Rural Presence:
Fayetteville and other cities host special squares that are fed with bird seed and grain to host large pigeon populations for children to enjoy observing. These birds also find rural barns and bridges attractive.
These birds have a taste for humans and thrive near areas populated by people as well as devoid of them. As such, Band saw these breeds frequently visiting the mixture of urban and rural areas of Arkansas.
Tips for Spotting Rock Pigeons:
- Look for flocks on rooftops or sidewalks.
- Check bridges or silos in rural areas.
- Listen for soft cooing in city parks.
Common Ground-Dove – The Tiny Rarity:
Common Ground-Doves (Columbina passerina) are Arkansas’s smallest doves. They measure 6-7 inches. Their sandy-brown bodies have a scaly pattern. Dark spots mark their wings. A short tail and pinkish beak stand out. They blend into the ground.
Behavior and Diet:
These doves are shy. They scurry along the ground. Their call is a soft “woo-oo.” They eat seeds and small insects. They rarely visit feeders. Breeding occurs in warm months. Nests sit low in shrubs or on the ground.
Where do They Live?
Southern Arkansas is their primary range. Dry fields and scrublands attract them. They avoid dense forests. Urban edges with sparse vegetation suit them. Sightings are rare but increasing. They prefer staying hidden.
Challenges for Common Ground-Doves
- Habitat loss threatens their numbers.
- Competition with larger doves reduces food access.
- Their small size makes them hard to spot.
Comparison of Dove Species in Arkansas:
| Species | Size (inches) | Distinctive Feature | Preferred Habitat | Status in Arkansas |
| Mourning Dove | 9-13 | Black wing spots, long tail | Farmlands, suburbs | Common, year-round |
| White-Winged Dove | 10-12 | White wing patches | Southern fields, feeders | Increasing, seasonal |
| Eurasian Collared-Dove | 12-14 | Black neck collar | Urban areas, farms | Common, non-native |
| Rock Pigeon | 12-14 | Varied plumage, iridescent neck | Cities, rural structures | Abundant, year-round |
| Common Ground-Dove | 6-7 | Scaly pattern, small size | Dry fields, scrublands | Rare, southern |
What is the Reason Behind Arkansas Attracting These Doves?
Doves have an easy life in Arkansas. They get everything they need. Their homes are plentiful and sheltered. Farmland provides multiple food sources such as seeds and woodlands provide a nesting area. Additionally, urban regions contain valuable scraps of food that doves can consume.
Moreover, the southern regions replicate tropical climates which is nicknamed “natural dove homes”. These specific regions provide a diversity of resources needed, including seeds, winter grains, accessible food, livestock in the summer, and breeding opportunities.
What Other Parts Are Suited for Sustaining Dove Populations?
Arkansas is widely know for mild winters as this enables year-round dove sustenance. This is also favorable for the rest of the region’s climate. The optimal food accessibility for seasonal changes such as warming and migration period are also a bonus.
Furthermore, Dove hunting seasons commences in early September as this is the period where other regions of the country undergo migration. Depending on where the pair of birds are located, the AGFC has a set quota; usually above 15 doves a day which can also prove dangerous in regards to over-hunting.
Best Dove Hunting in Arkansas 2025 – Secrets to Bag Your Limit:
In Arkansas, hunting doves is considered a sport enjoyed throughout the state, particularly when fall approaches and the population of sportsmen tends to increase. During this period, the AGFC sets hunting periods in place to ensure regulated overhunting. The common target is mourning doves in which hunters require due to their swift and erratic movements.
Hunters can strategically position themselves in places geared towards sunflower fields or wheat converted to dove feeding grounds. Publicly accessible regions like the George H. Dunklin Jr. Bayou Meto WMA are perfect for those seeking advanced hunting.
2025 Dove Hunting Season Dates:
Early Season: September 6 – October 26.
Late Season: December 8 – January 15.
Bag Limit: 15 doves daily (mourning and white-winged doves combined).
Birdwatching and Dove Observation – Dove Season Arkansas 2025:
Arkansas’s diverse landscapes offer prime birdwatching spots for dove enthusiasts. The Delta region, with its vast farmlands, is a hotspot for mourning doves.
Mourning Doves dominate open fields. Eurasian Collared-Doves flock to cities. White-Winged Doves expand in the south. Rock Pigeons rule urban centers. Common Ground-Doves hide in scrublands. This variety ensures year-round birdwatching opportunities.
Urban parks, like Pinnacle Mountain State Park, attract Eurasian collared-doves. For white-winged doves, head to southern Arkansas, where their range is expanding.
Doves in Arkansas Map:
Best Places in Arkansas to Watch Doves – Must-Visit Locations:
According to the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, the state is richly endowed in biodiversity as it is located along the Mississippi Flyway and as such has a rectangular pattern with regions as Delta Farmlands, river woodlands and Urban Doves. All five species of doves can be found in these ecosystems as well as the southern regions that mimic much warmer climates.
Mourning Dove Hotspot – Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge:
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge is located beside the Arkansas River and has a total of 7000 acres in farms, forests and wetlands. It is also known as one of the best places in the United States to view bird species and boasts open farmland regions looking like a ‘Mourning dove paradise’.
Seeds for doves are also readily available and can easily be spotted flying around in herds. It features a variety of observation decks and trails that make viewing beautiful doves easy.
Doves by the Water – Lake Dardanelle State Park:
Another one of the best parks in the United States, it covers a whopping 34300 acres of woodland and a lake. Holla Bend National is located near Russellville and is frequented by both mourning doves and Eurasian collared Doves. Doves can be seen near lakes and some divides in the woods. Shady and sunny patches are frequent throughout the park where doves stay and bird watchers can get stunning lake views while getting the chance to spot doves.
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Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge – White-Winged Dove Haven:
A broad expanses of 65,000 acres in the southern part of Arkansas make it a notable landmark for White-Winged Doves in the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge. In addition to these doves, mourning doves also make an appearance. The warm weather in summer helps doves. For increased bird watching, trails and boat access are added. A stunning chance to see doves in a unique ecosystem is offered at this spot.
How Arkansas Protects Doves – 2025’s Must-Know Conservation Wins:
Maintaining an active population of doves in the region has an enhanced priority in Arkansas. Dove numbers are monitored by the AGFC through banding programs and surveys of habitats. Doves have greater chances of food as greater efforts are made by farmers to leave unharvested grains in the fields.
Citizens of the city contribute by having bird-friendly yards. Doves have increased chances of threats such as urban development leading to habitat loss, which is worsened by the use of pesticides which greatly reduce available food.
Harsh weather such as storms or droughts can disrupt the breeding cycles of doves. Groups that conserve these species address such issues through education that is open to the public, combined with the restoration and alteration of habitats.
Fun Facts About Doves in Arkansas:
Curious about doves? Here are some fascinating tidbits:
- Mourning doves can fly up to 55 miles per hour.
- Doves drink water by sucking it up, unlike most birds that sip.
- A pair of doves can produce up to 12 chicks in a single season.
- Arkansas’s dove population peaks during fall migration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Is It Good to Have Doves in Your Yard?
Yes, doves benefit yards. They eat seeds, controlling weeds. Their gentle coos add charm. They attract other birds. Doves pose no harm. Feeders with millet draw them. Ensure clean water for drinking.
How to Tell the Difference Between a White-Winged Dove and a Mourning Dove?
White-Winged Doves have bold white wing patches. Mourning Doves show black wing spots. White-Winged Doves are stockier. Mourning Doves have long, pointed tails. Listen for White-Winged’s “who-cooks-for-you” call. Mourning Doves coo mournfully.
What Is the Difference Between a Mourning Dove and a Common Ground-Dove?
Mourning Doves are larger, 9-13 inches. Common Ground-Doves are tiny, 6-7 inches. Mourning Doves have long tails. Common Ground-Doves show scaly patterns. Mourning Doves prefer open fields. Common Ground-Doves hide in scrublands.
Conclusion:
Doves in Arkansas do not only represent avian species, but also signify appreciation for the state’s great natural resources. Doves go beyond the mere sights of killing, watching or nature appreciation; they captivate the imagination with their splendid soaring and mellifluous singing.
Animals and nature enthusiasts especially look forward to the gracious Arkansas landscapes to observe the doves that this stunning state has. The animals are preserved for future generations due to the state’s diverse ecosystems, doves, managed hunting seasons, and dedicated conservation efforts.
The Arkansas region quite literally enables one to capture connections with nature while hunting doves in the delta or spotting them in the fields. This is something that adds to the wonders of the region and marks it as a part of the praised natural state, Pendulum through the hearts on clouds. The dive populations on offer further demonstrate why Arkansas is preferred by many.