The Inca dove or Mexican dove is a small New World dove. The species was first described by French surgeon and naturalist René Lesson in 1847. It reaches a length of 16.5–23 cm (6.5–9.1 in) and weighs 30–58 g (1.1–2.0 oz). The Inca dove has an average wingspan of 28.5 cm and a max wingspan of 32 cm. It is a slender species, with a gray-brown body covered in feathers that resemble a scaled pattern. The tail is long and square and edged with white feathers that may flare out in flight. The underwings are reddish, like other ground doves, and upon takeoff, the wings produce a distinctive, quiet rattling noise.
Region
Southwestern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America
Typical Environment
Inca doves inhabit arid and semi-arid landscapes, desert edges, scrublands, open woodlands, and human-modified areas such as towns, parks, and gardens. They are commonly seen in courtyards and around feeders where seed is available. The species forages mostly on the ground and uses low shrubs and small trees for roosting and nesting. Their range has expanded northward along urban corridors, especially in the southwestern United States.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2400 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Inca doves have a distinctive scaled pattern on their feathers and reveal rich rufous underwings in flight. They often form communal night roosts, stacking closely in tiers to conserve warmth during cool weather. The species readily uses urban and suburban habitats and frequently visits ground seed feeders. Their flimsy twig nests are sometimes reused and can accumulate multiple layers.
A pair of Inca doves nesting
Inca dove in Chihuahua, Mexico
Temperament
social and relatively confiding near humans
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with a soft rattling sound
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups and gathers in larger flocks at feeding sites. Pairs are largely monogamous and defend small territories around nest sites. In cool weather, they form tight communal roosts, stacking in layers on branches to share warmth. Nests are flimsy platforms of twigs placed in shrubs, small trees, or human structures.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, repetitive cooing phrases delivered from exposed perches. Calls are low and mournful, and wing-clatter or rattling is audible during takeoff and display flights.
