White-winged Doves (Zenaida asiatica) are primarily found in the southwestern United States and Mexico, where they are considered resident birds. They are commonly found in states such as Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and parts of California. These regions provide the ideal habitat for White-winged Doves, which prefer arid and semi-arid areas with access to water sources such as rivers, lakes, and agricultural fields.
However, White-winged Doves have been expanding their range and can now be found in various other parts of North America. These doves have been sighted in states like Alaska, where their presence is considered rare but not unheard of. In fact, there have been reports of White-winged Doves nesting in Alaska, which is quite remarkable considering the species’ typical range.
Moving eastward, White-winged Doves have also been observed in provinces like Ontario in Canada. While not as common as in the southwestern United States, sightings of these doves in Ontario are becoming more frequent. The expansion of their range is likely due to a combination of factors, including climate change, habitat availability, and the availability of food sources.
White-winged Doves have also been seen in eastern states such as Maine and even as far north as Newfoundland. These sightings are considered rare, and the doves are likely individuals that have strayed far from their usual range. It is not uncommon for birds to disperse or migrate outside their typical range, and White-winged Doves are no exception.
The presence of White-winged Doves in these areas can often be attributed to factors such as changes in habitat or food availability. In some cases, individuals may have been blown off course during migration or may have dispersed in search of new territories. It is also possible that some of these sightings may be the result of escaped or released captive birds, as White-winged Doves are sometimes kept as pets.
While White-winged Doves are most common in the southwestern United States and Mexico, they have been expanding their range and can now be found in various parts of North America. From Alaska to Ontario, Maine to Newfoundland, these doves have been observed far outside their typical range, showcasing their adaptability and ability to colonize new areas.