The Simple Reason for This Odd Mourning Dove Motion

Mourning doves are one of the most beloved backyard birds. Their signature cooing means they’re often heard before they’re seen. When they are discovered, it’s usually while hunting for food or splashing in a bird bath. But what does this unusual wing raise mean?

It Gets Hot Under There

Raising wings is not specific to mourning doves. Humans can get sweaty armpits just like birds get overheated wings. In this video, the prime indicator is the setting. There could be several reasons for a wing raise, but this mourning dove is likely getting a spritz. The bird is seen dunking its head seconds before raising its wing, which is telling. Since birds don’t sweat, they must find other ways to stay cool. One way is to stay out of the sun, but that’s difficult while flying. Another way to do this is to find a cold water source such as a stream to reduce the body temperature. Plus, cold water has an added bonus for this mourning dove. The stream might create a mist that feels good to a bird needing a cooldown. By raising its wings, water splashes the underside, helping to cool the bird further.

Water is Not An Enemy of Birds

A common misconception is that birds are averse to water. Seabirds aside, most birds have no issue with lakes, ponds, or even puddles. Birds like this mourning dove use oils from preen glands to make their feathers waterproof. Water runs off their wings and doesn’t penetrate, allowing them to bathe regularly. So, why don’t birds fly during rainstorms? The answer has more to do with air density than waterlogging. Atmospheric pressure drops during storms, and birds can feel this sudden change. The pressure drop creates less dense air, which is not conducive to flight. Raindrops are challenging for birds because they occupy space and also lower air density.

Shallow Water is Preferred

Deep water can be dangerous to non-seabirds. Birds we see daily, such as mourning birds, are very buoyant. The shallower the water, the easier it is for a bird to take flight. Birds don’t need to splash around and swim in shallow pools, either, which allows them to relax. Backyard birth baths are often encouraged in rural communities for this same reason. If you don’t have a bird bath, a few stones and some running water are also helpful!

This mourning dove likely found the stream to be a safe, shallow spot for a bath. Shallow water like this also permits stretching while cooling down. This bird behavior is not only normal but necessary! After a long flight, shallow spots like this become a safe haven for mourning doves.