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African Mourning Dove
African Mourning Dove
Origin
Sub-Saharan Africa
Size
Medium Breed
Ideal Weather
15º-29ºC
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹2,500
Basic Lifestyle
₹3,500
Premium Lifestyle
Top 5 Traits
Gentle
Quiet
Social
Affectionate
Independent
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 22 Sept 2025
Introduction to African Mourning Doves
The African Mourning Dove scientifically known as Zenaida Macroura is a peaceful bird known for its soft cooing.
Characteristics
Affection
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Vocalization
Silent
Vocal
Intelligence
Low
High
Social Behavior
Prefer Isolation
Very Social
Nutrition Guidelines for African Mourning Doves
Monthly Food Expenses
₹1,500 - ₹ 2,000
Ideal weight
150 - 180 grams
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Carbohydrates
Fats
Vitamins
Minerals
List of foods
Seeds
Fruits
Vegetables
Herbs
Grasses
Legumes
Sprouts
African Mourning Doves require a balanced diet that contains proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fats. Here is what you should focus on while designing a diet for your bird.
Foods that are harmful to African Mourning Doves
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Avocado
Chocolate
Caffeine
Alcohol
Raw beans
Onions
Garlic
Just like how you got an idea of what all the food items should be fed to your pet bird. It is also essential to know what food items can cause harm to your pet. Here is a list of those food items that should be avoided-
Healthcare Guide for African Mourning Doves
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹1,000 - ₹1,500
Recognising Stress
Feather Plucking
Withdrawal or Hiding
Loss of Appetite
Decreased Social Interaction
Weight Loss
Changes in Droppings
Panting or Open-Mouth Breathing
Common Health Issues
Respiratory Infections
Gastrointestinal tract yeast infections
Feather Plucking
Candidiasis
Fatty liver disease
Nutritional Deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin A deficiency)
Parasitic Infections (e.g., mites, lice)
Energy Level
Medium
Preventative measure
Physical checkup every 6-12 months
Annual Fecal Exam
Environmental Enrichment
Avoid Sudden Diet Changes
Mental Stimulation
Physical Stimulation
Common Health Issues in African Mourning Doves
- Canker (Trichomoniasis): This is caused by the Trichomonas gallinae protozoan. It causes growth in the throat and mouth.
- Parasitic infections: African Mourning Doves are very susceptible topParasites both internal and external. This causes weight loss or gain in African Mourning Doves.
- Avian Pox: This health issue is commonly found in African Mourning doves and the symptoms include epithelial hyperplasia with eosinophilic inclusion bodies.
- Respiratory Infections: African Mourning Doves often have respiratory infections showing symptoms like wheezing, sneezing and nasal discharges.
- Feather Lice and Mites: This causes irritation and feather damage.
Prerequisites to pet a African Mourning Dove
Time Commitment.
Stress-free Environment.
Enrichment Activities.
Regular Cage Cleaning.
Ideal Habitat for African Mourning Doves
Initial Setup Cost
₹3,000 - ₹ 3,500
Monthly Expenses
₹1,000 - ₹ 1,500
Essential Equipment
Bird Cage
Perches
Food/ water dishes
Cage Liner Paper
Bird Bath
Mineral Block
Toys and Enrichment
Compatible mates
Ring-necked Doves.
White-winged Doves.
Laughing Doves.
Turtle Doves.
- They can thrive in spacious cages or aviaries as they can fly from tree to tree.
- It is better to have different sizes of perches so that the birds can exercise their feet.
- Keep the cages in a bright but shaded area.
- Always keep the cages clean and dry.
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Compare with similar breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of African Mourning Doves?
They typically live 10–12 years in captivity with proper care.
Are African Mourning Doves good pets?
Yes, they are peaceful and easy to care for, but they’re better for observation than handling.
What do African Mourning Doves eat?
They eat a diet of seeds, grains, fruits, and leafy greens, along with grit to aid digestion.
Do African Mourning Doves sing?
They don’t sing like canaries, but their soft, mournful cooing is calming and pleasant.
Can African Mourning Doves live with other birds?
Yes, they can coexist peacefully in aviaries with other non-aggressive birds, provided there’s enough space.