Zebra Dove
Zebra Dove Overview
Zebra doves are some of the most commonly seen birds in urban areas in Hawaii. They frolic in beach parks, on sidewalks, in shopping centers and yards. They are quite tame and often times don't fly away when a human comes close to them.
Their habitat reaches from sea level to hills up to 4,000 feet (1,220 m) in elevation. Zebra doves are native to Asia and were introduced to Hawaii in 1922. They are also known as Barred Doves. Adult males and females look similar. Their body is mainly brow-gray in color with a rose-colored belly and a bluish-gray face. Their legs and feet are reddish and the skin around their eyes and bill is a pale blue.
Zebra doves mainly feed on small seeds. Breeding season is year-round and the nest is usually built in a tree or shrub, or in urban areas in building crevices or telephone lines. One or two white eggs are laid each time and they breed up to five times per year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I commonly see zebra doves in Hawaii?
Zebra doves are widespread in urban areas, beach parks, sidewalks, shopping centers, and residential yards across all main Hawaiian Islands.
Where do zebra doves build their nests?
They often nest in trees, shrubs, building crevices, and even on telephone lines. Their nests are simple and made of twigs or grasses.
What do zebra doves look like?
They have a brown-gray body with barred feathering, a rose-colored belly, bluish-gray face, pale blue skin around the eyes, and reddish legs and feet. Males and females look very similar.
What do zebra doves eat?
Zebra doves primarily eat small seeds, which they forage for on the ground in open areas such as parks and lawns.
When is the zebra dove's breeding season?
They breed year-round in Hawaii, often up to five times per year, usually laying one or two white eggs per clutch.