Energy Content of Seeds of Texas Doveweed (Croton texensis) from the Diet of Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura) from Southeastern New Mexico

Abstract

We analyzed the energy content of seeds of Texas doveweed ( Croton texensis ) obtained from the crops of mourning doves ( Zenaida macroura ) collected from plains-mesa sand-scrub habitat in Eddy and Lea counties, New Mexico. Seeds were removed from crops and dried for 48 hours at 60°C to remove moisture and to standardize masses. Seeds were then analyzed for gross caloric value (i.e., energy content) in an oxygen bomb calorimeter. Energy content of seeds of Texas doveweed was greater than that of many seeds previously reported from the diet of mourning doves.