Doves Protect Their Nests from Roadrunner Predators

by Cindy
(CA)

A Dramatic Encounter - Doves and a Roadrunner

The roadrunner, a regular visitor with his mate, hadn't caused trouble before. But this time, the doves were clearly alarmed.

I quickly realized why: the roadrunner was a threat to their baby.

Amid gusts of wind reaching 65 mph, the doves' fledgling had been blown out of its nest and was stranded in the corner of my patio.

The roadrunner, a known predator of baby birds, was dangerously close.

A Rescue Mission

I had to act fast. Approaching the mother dove, who bravely stayed by her baby's side, I gently lifted the tiny bird out from under her.

The other dove perched nearby, watching me intently.

Using pine needles and buds from the ground, I crafted a makeshift nest in a planter bucket.

I placed the bucket high on a plant rack under the pine tree where the baby had fallen.

Praying the parents wouldn't abandon their fledgling due to my interference, I watched anxiously from my window.

The fledgling stood on the edge of the bucket, calling out to its parents. Initially, the doves flew far away, and my heart sank.

But an hour later, I heard their familiar cooing. They returned!

One of the doves entered the bucket, staying with its baby for a few minutes before coaxing it to fly down to the ground.

The fledgling, just learning to fly, followed its parents to a nearby low-lying bush and nestled under its mother’s protective wing.

A Happy Ending

Today, the dove family remains in the yard, having moved to a safer location. The roadrunners seem to be steering clear of their new territory.

This experience reaffirmed the resilience and devotion of bird parents. With such dedicated care, this little fledgling has a second chance at life.

Added by wild-bird-watching.com

What You Should Know About Roadrunners and Doves

Roadrunner Behavior

Roadrunners are opportunistic predators, known to prey on small birds, lizards, and insects.

They are agile hunters but generally avoid confrontation when faced with a determined defense.

Dove Nesting Habits

Doves often build their nests in high, secure locations. They are fiercely protective of their young, especially fledglings learning to fly.

Helping Birds in Distress

If you find a fledgling in danger, create a safe, elevated spot near its original nest and monitor from a distance.

Avoid prolonged handling to ensure the parents return.

Share Your Story

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