Dove — Birds

The story behind the answer

This bird’s slender body, small head, and thin, straight bill identify it as a dove. Its pale, smooth plumage and perching feet (not webbed) distinguish it from ducks and geese, which have wide, flat bills and webbed feet for swimming. It’s also not a blackbird, which is typically dark (males are jet black) with a different body shape.

Doves belong to the Columbidae family—the same as pigeons—and are known for their soft cooing and swift, pointed-wing flight. Many species feed their chicks “crop milk,” a nutrient-rich secretion. Culturally, doves symbolize peace and