Bird Identification

It is not required that you know how to identify the birds you find during a SLACS survey. You will be taking and submitting photographs to Tracy Aviary staff that can identify these bird species. However, we encourage you to take on the optional challenge of learning these identifications! Here is a list of birds that are (unfortunately) commonly reported in SLACS.

 

Bird Codes:

Want to feel like a real ornithologist? Input your bird identification in the notes section of the SLACS datasheet as a code. These codes are used by ornithologists (biologists that study birds) as a short-hand during surveys.

 

Mourning Dove

Bird Code: MODO

Identify this bird by…

  • Plump body, small head and bill, long-tail

  • Black spots on lower wings and rump

  • Dark smudge or dot on cheek

Resources:

 

Eurasian-collared Dove

Bird Code: EUCD

Identify this bird by…

  • Large bird with square tail

  • The black “collar” around the back of its neck

  • Compared to the Mourning Dove, this bird lacks spotting on side of body, instead this bird is overall a paler overall grey

  • Squared tail (rather than pointed/tapered)

Resources: