iTHE MOURNING DOVE 



finitesimal seeds that are eschewed by other birds; as 

 many as 9200 seeds have been found in the stomach of 

 one dove. 



These birds have an unerring instinct for fresh water. 

 With a peculiar, whistling sound, they fly at nightfall to 

 a spring or pool for a cool drink before retiring. Hun- 

 ters are said to have watched them and thus found springs 

 for their needs.' 



Doves eat quantities of gravel to aid in the digestion of 

 their epicurean feasts. They are fond of dust-baths. 

 They also indulge in queer, senseless-looking acrobatic 

 performances, which appear like attempts at gymnastics. 



3 "Life Histories of North American Birds," — Maj. Chas. Bendire. 



[143] 



