It looks very similar to the mourning dove, but is smaller in size, has a shorter, more rounded tail, and is a bit more darkly colored.

It is also distinguished from the mourning dove by showing white on the trailing edge of its wings while in flight.

It lays two white eggs on a flimsy platform, built on a tree or shrub.

Parents feed the young pigeon's milk, a nutrient rich substance regurgitated from its crop.

It is thought the salt aids in egg formation and/or production of pigeon milk.