Mapping the distribution of Eurasian Collared-Doves (Streptopelia decaocto), White-winged Doves (Zenaida asiatica) and Inca Doves (Columbina inca) in Oklahoma County
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The Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto), White-winged Dove (Zenaida asiatica) and Inca Dove (Columbina inca) have recently begun breeding in Oklahoma. It is hypothesized that these three doves are increasing and expanding their range in Oklahoma County. Christmas Bird Count (CBC) data from the National Audubon Society was used to track changes in the populations of these species. Seventy-five randomly generated observation points as well as submitted observations by the public were used to determine the distribution of these species in Oklahoma County. The CBC data shows that all three populations have been increasing statewide; however only the Eurasian Collared-Doves are increasing significantly in Oklahoma County. During spring 2009 we observed 72 Eurasian Collared-Doves on 29 of the 75 transects. Eight White-winged Doves were also found and were primarily restricted to southwest Oklahoma City and Midwest City. Inca Doves were not observed on the transects but were twice observed by the authors in Oklahoma County during this study and we suspect that they are present in low densities in the county. This study is important because it documents the current relative abundance of these three dove species and can be used for future studies that examine the effects of climate change on the ranges of these species. Future researchers should continue monitoring the populations and distributions of these three increasing species. Future studies can also be conducted to determine the competition between these doves and if the larger Eurasian Collared-Dove is cominant to the other dove species.
