Laughing Dove vs Namaqua Dove

In short

The Laughing Dove and Namaqua Dove can be distinguished by their structure and plumage. The Laughing Dove has a more robust body and a distinctive scaly pattern on its neck, while the Namaqua Dove is smaller, with a long tail and a striking black face mask in males.

Identification tips

• Structure: Look for the Laughing Dove's robust body versus the Namaqua Dove's slender build and long tail.
• Plumage: Identify the Laughing Dove by its scaly neck pattern and the Namaqua Dove by the male's black face mask.
• Tail: The Namaqua Dove's long tail is a key feature.

Size

The Laughing Dove is generally more robust and larger than the slender Namaqua Dove.

Plumage

Laughing Doves have a scaly pattern on their neck and a more uniform pinkish-brown plumage. Namaqua Doves are notable for their long tails and, in males, a distinctive black face mask and chestnut wing patches.