The bird most commonly mistaken for an owl is the Mourning Dove. Its distinctive call and widespread presence often lead people to believe they are hearing an owl hooting, particularly those with an untrained ear.
Why Mourning Doves Are Confused with Owls
Mourning Doves possess several characteristics that contribute to this common misidentification:
- Vocalizations: The cooing sounds produced by a Mourning Dove can strikingly resemble the hooting of an owl, especially when heard from a distance or in the quiet hours of dawn or dusk. This auditory similarity is the primary reason for the confusion.
- Appearance: These birds are typically skittish and have a blue-gray plumage, which, while distinct from an owl, might not be clearly discernible in low light conditions or at a quick glance, especially if only the sound is initially noticed.
- Habitat and Proximity: Mourning Doves are incredibly common and adaptable, found in a wide variety of environments that often put them in close proximity to human dwellings. They can be spotted on:
- Window ledges
- Alleyways
- Backyards
- Bird feeders
Their frequent presence in residential areas means people are more likely to hear their calls and attribute them to a less common, more mysterious nocturnal bird like an owl.
Distinguishing Between a Mourning Dove and an Owl
While their calls can be confusing, several key differences help distinguish Mourning Doves from owls.
Key Characteristics
| Feature | Mourning Dove | Owl (General) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Sound | Cooing, often mistaken for hooting | Hooting, screeching, or other distinct calls |
| Appearance | Slender, blue-gray body, small head, long tail | Stocky build, large head, forward-facing eyes |
| Activity | Primarily diurnal (active during the day) | Mostly nocturnal (active at night) |
| Size | Relatively small (about 12 inches) | Varies widely, many species are significantly larger |
| Diet | Seeds, grains | Carnivorous (rodents, insects, other birds) |
The next time you hear a hoot-like sound outside your window, especially during the daytime or early evening, it's highly probable you're listening to a common Mourning Dove rather than a secretive owl.
