Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura): Despite its gentle appearance, the mourning dove’s call can reach high decibel levels in close proximity. Its soft, haunting coo is often mistaken for an owl’s call. While not among the absolute loudest, its vocal efficiency in open habitats makes it highly noticeable. More remarkably, the sound produced by its wings during takeoff can be startlingly loud, serving as an alarm signal. This non-vocal noise warns other doves of predators. The combination of vocal and mechanical sound enhances survival. Widespread across North America, its calls are a common acoustic backdrop, showing that loudness isn’t just about volume but also context and function in communication.
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