Occasional visits by Mourning Doves to local feeding stations is not uncommon. The birds showed up on the 2007 Christmas Bird Count to the tune of 45...that is...scattered in the 7.5 radius of the Ney Nature Center. However, on a blustery Friday, February 8th, as we were comfortably camped at the MN River feeders, the gentle birds began dropping from the skies like falling oak leaves. Their characteristic whistling wings set our ears to surging; we could not believe our eyes!!! First a pair, then four pair, down, down they came until 41 beauties bobbed about the icy snow crust, gorging themselves on millet and cracked corn. Constantly on guard, and "chowing down" quickly, they took turns eating and returning to the trees nearby. Since then, depending upon cruelty of the northwest wind, they continue to visit in large numbers. What a treat!!!! (Thank goodness for digital cameras!!!)

I can't ever remember being able to observe that many Morning Doves at one time. It must have been something...... It's something to be able to view it with you through your picture.... Many thanks to you, first for maintaining the feeding station and then for your quick shutter finger. (THANK YOU!)