As food sources change, the flock will move and search for another food source. Mourning Doves fly at speeds of 26-41 mph. Since doves are fast fliers and not particularly wary, they have become the most hunted game bird in the United States. Up to 70 million Mourning Doves are shot each year. They rarely feed on insects.
Food is found by sight or by seeing other birds feeding.
Doves are attracted to fresh grain, such as wheat. The food must fall to the ground in order for the dove to eat it. Mourning doves have the ability to remember where they found food. Doves produce a high protein food from grain in the form of pigeon milk which is fed to their young. The Mourning dove can be found throughout the United States, particularly in agricultural areas.