How to Call a Group of Doves: Bevy, Cote, or Flight

Have you ever watched a flurry of doves take to the sky and wondered what to call that elegant cluster? In the world of birdwatching, each species has its own collective noun—terms that add color and clarity to our observations.

A Bevy or a Cote of Doves

When doves are on the ground or perched together, they are most commonly referred to as a bevy. The word evokes the calm, social nature of these birds. If they’re kept in a traditional structure—known as a dovecote—the group may also be called a cote. When the birds take flight, the term flight comes into play, reflecting the dynamic movement of the flock.

Historical Roots of Collective Nouns

Many of today’s collective nouns trace back to medieval hunting practices, where hunters needed concise labels to describe the behavior of different species. Terms such as a “gaggle of geese” or a “murder of crows” were practical identifiers that have survived into modern English. This linguistic tradition has given us a “bevy of doves,” a “parliament of owls,” and a “murmuration of starlings,” among others.

Doves and Their Avian Kin

Doves belong to the Columbidae family, which also includes pigeons—often a source of confusion for the uninitiated. Within this family, collective nouns such as a kit of pigeons are common. Outside the family, you’ll encounter interesting names like:

• A covey of quail
• A gaggle of geese (on land)
• A skein of geese (in flight)
• A muster of peacocks

Folklore and holiday traditions also celebrate doves. The “two turtle doves” from the classic carol are a testament to their cultural resonance, and these birds also travel in bevies. While most collective nouns are used for vivid description rather than scientific precision, knowing them can enhance your birdwatching experience and sharpen observational skills.

We crafted this article with AI assistance, then had it meticulously fact‑checked and refined by a HowStuffWorks editor to ensure accuracy and clarity.