For the past six weeks I have had an unusual dove feeding daily for long  
periods on my window feeder.  The bird looks in all respects like a regular  
Mourning Dove except for a hook bill.  As far as behavior, it is unusual  
for a dove in that:
 
    1. It is unafraid.  Most doves flush when they  see movement near the 
window.  It remains and one can come right up to the  window and watch it.
    2. It is very aggressive and chases off any other  doves that land on 
the feeder.  It tolerates chickadees, nuthatches and  titmice.
    3. It does not fly with or apparently roost with  other doves.  It 
always seems to be by itself.
    4. It uses a strange sweeping motion with its bill  when it feeds 
sometimes, reminiscent of a spoonbill.
    5. It eats suet that has been crumbled.
 
Initially I thought this bird might be the first North American visit of  
the rare South American Snail Dove, but I am now thinking that it may just be 
 the sociabilis subspecies of the Mourning Dove.  Documentation  
description and photo have previously been sent to Phil Davis and photo will be  sent 
off line to anyone who requests.
 
Bob Mumford
Darnestown