Birdland: Bird Of Peace

Throughout history and among many cultures, doves have symbolized love, gentleness of spirit, and loyalty. Doves became a symbol for peace activists after World War II, popularized by the artist Pablo Picasso. Doves belong to the Columbidae family, which also includes pigeons. They mate for life and are excellent navigators, making them capable of delivering messages. The cooing of the Mourning Dove is one of the most familiar bird sounds, and their soft, drawn-out calls sound like laments. This Mourning Dove was photographed in Park Hill by Mark Silverstein.