Odd dove, California, USA (1 Viewer)

[rkj]

I observed this bird in central California 7 March 2014. It was the size and shape of a Eurasian Collared Dove, several of which were in the area, and I think that is probably what it was. But the dark head and breast are unlike any ECD that I have seen before. Some Rock Pigeons might show something similar, but other features (the tail color and length, wing color) did not look much like a Rock Pigeon. I would welcome any opinions as to what the bird might actually be.

Thanks, rkj

 

[Larry Lade]

Feral Pigeon, a.k.a. here in US as Rock Pigeon.

 

[Rapala]

Feral Pigeon, a.k.a. here in US as Rock Pigeon.

You got it

 

[fugl]

Going by the undertail pattern (and the OP's description) aberrant ECD would be my best guess. Certainly not a Rock Pigeon.

 

[Tiraya]

That tail is much closer to Band-tailed pigeon than Rock Dove, but I don't think its a BTP either.

Melanistic collared dove is possible. See:

http://www.pbase.com/ol_coot/image/76924678

and

http://www.pbase.com/ol_coot/image/76924680

 

[ospr3y]

That long tail is certainly a Collared-dove trait.

 

[rkj]

Thanks to all who responded, but particularly to Silverwolf. I feel confident that the bird was a melanistic Eurasian Collared Dove.

 

[njlarsen]

The gallery here has a section labeled albinos and other odd birds. Please upload one or more of these images there.

Niels