Understanding the Nesting Habits of Doves and Understanding When or When Not to Help Their Young
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Doves are familiar birds in many neighborhoods and natural areas. Their gentle cooing and graceful flight often bring a sense of peace. Yet, many people do not fully understand how these birds raise their young or what to do if they encounter a fledgling on the ground. This post explores the nesting behaviors of five common dove species: Mourning Doves, Common Ground Doves, Inca Doves, White-winged Doves, and Eurasian-collared Doves. You will learn about their eggs, incubation, fledgling stages, and how to support these birds without causing harm.
Nesting Habits of Common Dove Species
Mourning Doves
Mourning Doves are widespread across North America and easily recognized by their soft, mournful cooing. They build simple nests made of twigs, often in trees, shrubs, or even on building ledges.
Number of eggs: Usually 2 per clutch
Incubation time: About 14 days
Fledgling period: Hatchlings leave the nest after 11 to 15 days but may stay nearby on the ground for up to two weeks
All Dove parents feed their young a special secretion known as "pigeon milk," which is rich in nutrients essential for the growth and development of the chicks. However, it is important to clarify that, despite its name, "pigeon milk" is NOT related to milk in the conventional sense that we understand it. This substance is actually a nutritious fluid produced in the digestive tracts of adult doves and pigeons, consisting of sloughed-off cells and other nutrients, rather than any lacteal secretion.
We have encountered situations where well-meaning individuals mistakenly believe that they can feed orphaned doves or pigeons regular milk, thinking it is similar to the "pigeon milk" provided by their parents. This misconception can be harmful, as birds cannot properly digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. Feeding them milk can lead to serious health issues and even death.
It is crucial for anyone who finds an injured or orphaned federally protected baby bird, such as a dove, to refrain from feeding it anything until they have consulted directly with a permitted avian rehabilitator. These professionals are trained to provide the appropriate care and nutrition that young birds need to thrive. Proper guidance ensures that the birds receive the best chance of survival and eventual release back into the wild.
Common Ground Doves
Smaller than Mourning Doves, Common Ground Doves prefer low shrubs or ground-level nests. Their nests are often flimsy platforms of twigs.
Number of eggs: 2 to 3 eggs
Incubation time: Around 12 to 14 days
Fledgling period: About 12 days in the nest, then fledglings stay near the ground for up to two weeks
These doves are well camouflaged, and their young are vulnerable to predators. Parents stay close and feed the fledglings until they can fly confidently.
Inca Doves
Inca Doves are known for their scaled feather pattern and preference for urban and suburban areas. They build nests in trees, shrubs, or on man-made structures.
Number of eggs: 2 eggs per clutch
Incubation time: Approximately 13 to 14 days
Fledgling period: Hatchlings leave the nest after about 14 days but remain nearby while parents feed them
Inca Doves often nest in loose colonies, which provides some protection. Fledglings may be seen sitting quietly on the ground or low branches while waiting for feeding.
White-winged Doves
These doves are larger and often found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. They build nests in trees or cacti.
Number of eggs: 2 eggs per clutch
Incubation time: About 14 to 15 days
Fledgling period: Young leave the nest after 15 days but stay close to the nest area for up to two weeks
White-winged Dove parents are attentive and continue feeding fledglings even when they are on the ground and out of immediate sight.
Eurasian-collared Doves
Originally from Europe and Asia, these doves have spread widely and adapt well to urban environments. They build nests in trees, shrubs, or on buildings.
Number of eggs: Usually 2 eggs
Incubation time: Around 14 days
Fledgling period: Fledglings leave the nest after 14 to 16 days and stay nearby while parents feed them
Eurasian-collared Doves are known for their persistent care of young, often feeding fledglings on the ground for several days to weeks.
What to Expect When You See a Fledgling Dove on the Ground
It is common to find young doves sitting on the ground near or below their nest. This behavior can be alarming, but it is normal. Fledglings are learning to fly and explore their surroundings while still relying on their parents for food and protection.
Fledglings may stay on the ground for up to two weeks after leaving the nest.
Parents continue feeding them even if they are not immediately visible.
The young birds often remain still and quiet to avoid attracting predators.
If you see a fledgling on the ground, do not pick it up or move it unless it is in immediate danger. The best action is to observe from a distance and allow the parents to care for their young.
How to Help If You Find an Injured Bird
Sometimes, a bird may be injured or in distress. Knowing the right steps can make a difference.
Assess the situation carefully. If the bird is in immediate danger (e.g., near traffic or predators), gently move it to a safer nearby location.
Avoid handling the bird more than necessary. Use gloves or a soft cloth to minimize stress and protect yourself.
Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local animal rescue center. They have the expertise to care for injured birds.
Keep the bird in a quiet, warm, and dark place while waiting for help. Use a ventilated box lined with a soft towel.
Do not attempt to feed or give water to the bird unless instructed by a professional. Improper feeding can cause harm.
Remember, many fledglings that appear alone are not abandoned. Intervening unnecessarily can disrupt natural care.
Encouraging Respect for Wild Doves and Their Young
Wild doves have evolved effective strategies to raise their young safely. Their nesting habits, incubation periods, and fledgling care show a strong parental commitment. By understanding these behaviors, we can better appreciate the resilience of these birds and avoid interfering with their natural processes.
Leave uninjured birds alone and observe quietly.
Support local wildlife organizations that protect bird habitats.
Create dove-friendly environments by planting native shrubs and trees.
Avoid using pesticides or chemicals that could harm birds or their food sources.
By respecting wild doves and their young, we help maintain healthy bird populations and enjoy the peaceful presence of these beautiful birds in our communities.
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