The Mourning- dove 75 



if not materially molested. It is a hardy species, enduring 

 considerable cold, and individuals remain even in the middle, 

 as well as the southern States, throughout the year. 



These Doves are far less gregarious and migratory than is 

 the common Wild Pigeon. When their food becomes scanty 

 in the fields in the course of the winter, they approach the 

 farm, feeding among the poultry with the Blackbirds, Spar- 

 rows and other guests of the same accidental bounty, and if 

 allowed without reprisal appear as gentle as domestic Doves. 

 Raised from the nest they are easily tamed, and instances are 

 known of their breeding in confinement. 



Geographical Distribution 



The northern limit of the distribution of the Mourning-dove is 

 along a line drawn from southern Maine to southern Canada and 

 British Columbia. In winter it occurs from southern Illinois and New 

 York to the West Indies and Panama. Its nest is built wherever it 

 occurs over this wide range. 



