Back Cover

Mourning Dove

Not all mourning doves leave Missouri when cold weather arrives. Some remain here all year, and others winter in the state after breeding in more northern latitudes. Wintering doves seek protected areas with ample and consistent food supplies, and can often be seen near backyard bird feeders. Our frigid temperatures take a toll, however. Doves that winter here often are missing toes due to frostbite. -- John Schulz