It’s a mutation in the same gene, EphB2 which has led to a similar result in domesticated ringneck doves.The mutation causes the feathers on the back of the head and neck to grow up toward the head in a striking look.
Hello, I have been watching a mature mourning dove that has a bunch of feathers sticking out of its mouth. I wasn’t sure if it was a deformity or a beak break that healed and caused this. Has anyone seen this? It’s healthy otherwise, so it looks like its been eating. I was hoping this post would have something about it. If someone has seen this please let me know the chances of the dove making it with this type of mouth deformity and being able to continue to eat. Thank you!
Hi Lola, Thanks for reaching out. This might be a better question for Project FeederWatch (feederwatch@cornell.edu). That said, as long as the bird can eat and get around okay, it probably has a similar survival rate as other doves.
It’s a mutation in the same gene, EphB2 which has led to a similar result in domesticated ringneck doves.The mutation causes the feathers on the back of the head and neck to grow up toward the head in a striking look.
Hope this helps!
Wow how do you find this info?!
Yes, it does. Thx so much!
I’m going to name it Katriel. (Crown)
Beautiful name! Your welcome!
Micah Grove. LOTS of Research, I’m glad y’all find it helpful! If you ever have any questions feel free to ask me! I’m here to help whenever i can!
I took a beautiful picture of what I think is a Mourning Dove with the mutation you spoke of.
How can I show you the picture please?
The EphB2 gene mutation that causes the feathers on the back of the head and neck to grow up toward the head
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Thank you. Mystery solved. Very helpful. Such cute little birds.
Are ring necked dove bred for a speafic reason?
Saw a female Mallard with a big brown bump on her. What causes that?
Saw a female Mallard with a big brown bump on her back. What causes that?
Are Ring-Necked doves the same as Eurasian collared Doves?
In pigeons its called a cap
Hello, I have been watching a mature mourning dove that has a bunch of feathers sticking out of its mouth. I wasn’t sure if it was a deformity or a beak break that healed and caused this. Has anyone seen this? It’s healthy otherwise, so it looks like its been eating. I was hoping this post would have something about it. If someone has seen this please let me know the chances of the dove making it with this type of mouth deformity and being able to continue to eat. Thank you!
Hi Lola, Thanks for reaching out. This might be a better question for Project FeederWatch (feederwatch@cornell.edu). That said, as long as the bird can eat and get around okay, it probably has a similar survival rate as other doves.
I observed a mourning dove yesterday at my feeders with a tufted head. First for me.
Just saw a mourning dove on our feeder in PA, with a crest like a cardinal’s.