Hi folks, I wanted to share with you what I believe to be a juvenile
White-winged Dove, seen twice this week in Emerts Cove, Pittman Center, TN.
Both time I have observed this bird, it was a long way off, and only able to
get photos (attached) from about 800-1000 feet away, in waning sunlight. The
first observation over this past weekend, I could see white wing edges on the
frontal view of the bird, but the backlighting was poor and I deleted what few
photos I took (not on purpose). Then on Wednesday evening I spotted this bird
about .4 mile from the first sighting and perched on a wire.
All characteristics indicate to me White-winged Dove (WWDO), after doing
considerable research on juvenile plumages for this and Mourning Dove. I have
asked a few folks to look at these photos and most say WWDO, and no one has
said it is not a WWDO. I did not see this bird fly either time.
So I ask you indulgence to take a look at a few really poor long distance
photos and tell me what you think. You can respond privately or begin a
discussion about this bird.
I tried to relocate this morning but did not.
A few of the characteristic I see as calling this a WWDO are:
1. Overall jizz: seemed bulkier, a bit heavier, than most MODO
2. Short blunt tail with black undertail feathers with white tips (look close
and you can even see the brown tail feathers to the side)
3. Reddish-orange iris
4. Large bill
5. Perhaps with a bit of imagination, a slight dark spot below and behind the
bill, and some white on the right wing
6. Lack of dark spots on wing as in MODO
7 Overall brownish as in juvenile WWDO
8. Pale feathering around the head and face.
I look forward to your input.
PS If the photos aren't of sufficient size for your viewing, I can email them,
or you can look at Birds and Birding in Sevier County on Facebook for the same
set of photos.
Peace
Keith Watson
Pittman Center, TN
Sevier County
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