Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter

Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo): In the partridge family. Probably the largest "ground" bird in North America but can fly great distances. Roosts in trees. Males much more colorful than females with more ornate "beards". Photo by Anita Mueller.

Ruffed Grouse (Bonasus umbellus): Found throughout the entire region. Most hens will feign injury and run through the brush away from her chicks. This one decided to stand her ground and flare her wings and tail. Photo by Tony Van Vugt. Location: AT on James River Face, Jefferson National Forest, VA.

Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura): Fledglings in upper photo. Mom or Dad in lower photo. In the pigeon family. Very prolific but heavily hunted. Call is a mournful " WHO-o coo, coo, coo. Both parents feed young "pigeon milk" formed by partial digestion of grain in the croup. Photos by Anita Mueller.