White-winged Dove

Zenaida asiatica

Resident year-round in much of the U Deserts, saguaro cactus forests, thorn-s… Common Who-cooks-for-you Coo

Learn to identify the White-winged Dove by ear. Master the "hoo-WHO-who, hoo-WHO-who" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“hoo-WHO-who, hoo-WHO-who”

What the White-winged Dove sounds like

The White-winged Dove is a robust, medium-sized dove of arid and semi-arid landscapes. Recognized instantly in flight by the broad white flash on each wing, this southwestern specialty has expanded its range northward with the planting of ornamental trees and backyard feeders. On the ground it appears uniformly warm gray-brown, but when it takes off a startling pattern of white and black wings is revealed.

“hoo-WHO-who, hoo-WHO-who”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Males give a slow, rhythmic series of five coos, the second syllable accented and rising in pitch; carries for long distances in desert dawns. Often written as “hoo-WHO-who, hoo-WHO-who”.

Don't confuse with:The Mourning Dove — lacks bold white wing patches

Where you'll hear it

Deserts, saguaro cactus forests, thorn-scrub, riparian corridors, suburban neighborhoods, and agricultural fields—especially where large fruiting or flowering trees such as saguaro, mesquite, citrus, or mulberry are present.

In the Southwest, nesting begins as early as February; two-egg clutches may be raised in rapid succession until late summer. Peak migration occurs Aug-Sep southbound and Apr-May northbound.

Similar species

Mourning Dove

Lacks bold white wing patches

Eurasian Collared-Dove

Paler gray overall

Rock Pigeon

Stockier with variable plumages and two dark wing bars

White-winged Dove song FAQ

What does a White-winged Dove sound like?

Males give a slow, rhythmic series of five coos, the second syllable accented and rising in pitch; carries for long distances in desert dawns. Listen for the "hoo-WHO-who, hoo-WHO-who" phrase.

How do I tell a White-winged Dove from a Mourning Dove by sound?

Mourning Dove: Lacks bold white wing patches; More slender with a pointed tail tipped in white; Call is a mournful oo-AA-oo as opposed to the rhythmic who-cooks-for-you.

When is the best time to hear a White-winged Dove?

In the Southwest, nesting begins as early as February; two-egg clutches may be raised in rapid succession until late summer. Peak migration occurs Aug-Sep southbound and Apr-May northbound.