Dove (Inca)

A small tropical dove of arid areas, the Inca Dove has become a common resident of urban areas of the Southwest. It has expanded its breeding range northward and southward, but has remained attracted to towns and cities.

The Inca Dove engages in an odd behavior, known as "pyramid roosting." Pairs or groups of Inca Doves may huddle together in the sunshine, with some sitting on the back of the others. The pyramid may be three layers high and include up to 12 birds.

Because they fly directly to water, with no searching about, early west Texas travelers would often watch doves to locate water holes.

photographed at Desert Museum Aviary in Tucson, AZ