Morning Doves Nesting In My Hanging Plants.

by Aaron Vick

Two Mourning Dove Eggs In The Nest

Doves Nesting in Hanging Plant

I found doves nesting at my house.

I came across them when watering my hanging plants that hang well above the ground but just off of my front entrance deck.

It startled me as well as the nesting dove when I sprayed water from my water hose into the hanging ivy.

The dove flew out furiously and we both yelped. I was less than a foot away.

I looked into the hanging basket and saw the two eggs.

I found doves nesting at my house.
I got very excited but was concerned that the bird would not come back, but less than 5 minutes later the bird returned to its duties.

I immediately took some photos to share with family and friends.

When my girlfriend came home I told her about the nesting birds and she told me she knew they were using the hanging plant as a nest but didn't know they laid eggs.

I told her I only saw one.

She then told me that she saw one standing on the other's back like a balancing act.

We both laughed and said they must have been mating and after reading the information on this site I am positive that is exactly what was taking place.

The dove information provided by this site was very helpful and interesting.

We did not know that the male and female were switching out their duties in the nest.

It has been about 9 days since we first noticed the nest and we are very excited about the days to come.

From: wild-bird-watching.com
When watering a plant with an active nest, try to water around the edges making sure the nest stays dry. Cold water can harm eggs and the young.

Do not place food in or near the nest. Place a tray of safflower seed or corn at least 20 feet or more away. The adults will have no trouble finding the seed.

Magzines Make Great Year-round Gifts


Birds and Blooms	Pioneer Woman	People Magazine	First For Women

Comments for Morning Doves Nesting In My Hanging Plants.

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Jul 18, 2022

Morning doves.
by: Barbara

I have watched my morning doves that I have 2 eggs in my hanging plant.

But now the doves have been gone for 4 days what should I do? Thank you!

Mar 19, 2022

What's happening
by: Angie L

I've had Mourning Doves nesting successfully in my hanging basket for the last 5 years.

But this year, they nest then just as the eggs are due to hatch, I go out to find the nest raided, eggs on the floor and tail feathers from the adult dove also on the floor.

The basket is under the eaves and close to the wall. What is it that is attacking them. I live in Florida. Anyone got any ideas?

Jul 05, 2021

Doves Re-nesting
by: Gene

Mourning Doves may nest up to 4 times a season if they have success at the same site.

Gene
wild-bird-watching.com

Jul 05, 2021

Are the same doves nest in three months in a row in my plant?
by: Diana

Is it possible that the same pair of doves are laying eggs about every 32 days in the same nest?

I had a pair raise their babies in May the babies fledged two days later a nest was being freshened up another set were born they fledged and now two days later the pair is back.

Is it the same pair or different ones?

I am so puzzled I barely have a chance to clean up my plants before they're laying eggs again this is happened in May, June and now July? I would love the answer please comment if you know…

Sep 21, 2020

They are back..
by: Vera

We have just said goodbye to our first babies this year. We are starting our next clutch now.

They are very happy in our hanging plant and don't seem worried about us moving about near them.

They are wild doves. The plant survives without water, but it gets a good soak between families.

May 04, 2020

question
by: Anonymous

I was watching 2 mourning doves for about a week switching on their two eggs every day.

One afternoon I was gone for a few hours and came home and saw no bird and no eggs with the nest in tact.

I have no idea what happened. They were on my fire escape so they were pretty high up. Any ideas.

Apr 25, 2020

Nest moved
by: Dale Jag

Earlier this year, I had a dove make a nest on top of my solar inverter.

Living in the Palm Springs, CA area where it gets to be 120+, I didn't think the added heat from the inverter would be good for the birds.

While the mom was in the nest, I literally moved the nest about 10 feet over in the eaves of the house.

Mom looked a bit frightened, but never left the nest.

There were 2 eggs in the nest at the time and the little ones now will soon be leaving the nest.

I'm sure the mom knew who I was and trusted me somewhat. What choice did she have?

They always watch me working around the yard without disturbing them too much.

Well, except for that one time.

Apr 25, 2020

3 eggs
by: Gene

Not abnormal, but usually only two eggs are laid.

Apr 25, 2020

3 eggs
by: Gayle

I have a mourning dove nest in a hanging basket. Three eggs total laid about one day apart. Is this normal? Two years same thing happened and one egg didn’t hatch sadly. Thoughts?

Aug 03, 2018

Dove nest in house gutters
by: Anonymous

I posted a while back about doves nesting in our second floor house gutter.

They were exposed to scorching heat, torrential rainfall, and hail, and they survived and did very well! I was worried sick about them!!!

I have had the pure joy now of watching the third set of eggs being hatched, and I thank God every day for taking such good care of the dove family.

It brought tears of joy seeing the babies grow and eventually fly away. I love them so, so very much!

The nest has two new eggs in it, and I am so very excited to soon see the babies! Thank you God!

Aug 02, 2018

Thank you!
by: Kacie

I was only worried because when we buy baby chicks from the local tractor store they always say keep them at 98°. Attending bird did return sometime in the middle of the night though 👍🏼💕

Aug 02, 2018

squabs
by: Gene

Those temps are more than fine.

Aug 01, 2018

My heart is broken!! Please give me peace of mind!
by: Kacie

I have very newly hatched mourning doves in my hanging plant right on my front porch.

I walked out my front door and it frightened the attending bird and it flew off *I don't know how to tell Male and female*.

Anyway, attending bird has been gone for about 2 hours and I'm worried the littles are going to get too cold and die.

Do I leave them or find a source of heat for them?

It is currently 66° out with a bit of a breeze.

Jul 19, 2018

Doves not nesting...
by: Judi

We have a mated pair of doves in our yard. We've seen them mate twice, once yesterday.

Last year two doves nested in our hanging plant and we hoped they'd use it again, but not happening! We even put some pine needles in there to entice them, but no nest.

They come to our yard in the am and again at dusk. We put out dove seed and they are very familiar with us......why won't they nest?

Jul 11, 2018

Heartbroken
by: Anonymous

We have 2 doves nesting in our hanging basket on the front porch. Mommy laid the eggs & her and dad are taking turns on them.

1 egg hatched and we peeked at the little baby but the other egg still an egg.

2 days mom still sitting on newborn all day till this evening. We just checked, as shes gone and its 11:30pm and the other egg is gone and the baby still there looks dead!

We are in tears! I used a stick to move it but it seems dead altho it has some fluffy feathers started.

Wth happened! I'm leaving it alone but its pretty cool tonight and no mommy or daddy bird to keep him warm. Tears for the babies.

Jul 08, 2018

new tenants
by: LC

We currently have a pair of doves that have taken over an old robins nest right over our patio. I'm looking forward to seeing another family raised in the nest.

Jul 08, 2018

What to do?
by: Anonymous

I’ve got a young dove (7 days) that was nesting in my hanging plants.

There were a couple sparrows messing with its nest (likely trying to steal the unborn egg in the nest) and it caused such a ruckus that the baby jumped out and landed on our patio table.

The parents fed him twice that I saw while he was perched on the table but they haven’t been back since.

No one taught him to fly as he more or less fell out of the nest initially. He will fly erratically for a few feet on my patio but clearly has no idea what he’s doing.

Now he won’t leave patio and parents haven’t been spotted. So do I need to feed him or do something to make sure he survives?

On top of it all, I’m in Southern California and we’re in middle of 100+ degree heat wave. Dove is currently shaded with a small lid of water I put on the table but not sure what else to do.

Jul 02, 2018

Excited
by: Alicia

I noticed 3 days ago that a morning dove kept landing in one of my geranium hanging baskets.

Today I went I outside and lo and behold there was one dove laying on the basket; got too close and flew away with another dove.

Within an hour she was back. She stand still as long as I don't get too close, was able to water the other baskets.

Takes about 14 days for the chicks to hatch so I can't wait Kind of excited [ we have them all over for years but they have never chosen one my hanging baskets before!

Jun 24, 2018

Life goes on...
by: Anonymous

I also had a doves in my hanging basket but they left and a little chicks are still there.

I got very concerned but now I am happy to find out that eventually with their parents help, they will fly away.

I still keep my eyes on them hopefully it will happen. Thank you!

May 21, 2018

My Doves
by: Anonymous

I have a couple that nested on some hanging broom sticks right next to my carport door, we literally walk only a foot or so from the nest to enter and exit the house, it doesn't seem to phase them at all.

I was fortunate enough to witness the two youngsters first flight just this evening as they followed one of the parents around the carport, landing on different objects as they learned, then back to the nest, truly wonderful to witness.

May 20, 2018

Doves
by: Tracy

Ok..........We have doves too in our hanging flower pot. I would like to know this it the 5th year of doves. Is it the same doves?

Every year they have came back and I was late on planting my hanging flower pots.....but it was funny because the doves were back and were like where are the hanging pots?

They hung around and tried to make there own on our front porch.....we are at our neighbors houses hanging out.

I saw them and thought ok I better start planting those flower pots.

It took one day after I hung them up, that they were nesting happily! I just wonder is it the same doves?

I am sorry not to much of a bird wiz, I just think its great that they come every year.

May 11, 2018

Bothering the parents
by: Dale Jag

I doubt it. I have had several over my doorways and it doesn't bother them. They look concerned for a while but soon I think they get used to you.

Best to keep your distance of at least a couple feet. 2 days ago, one of the birds was watching the nest from about 20 feet away.

I walked up to the bird and was about a foot away from it talking to it. This bird could have easily been here the 3rd year in a row and probably knows me.

They keep putting the nest in the same place around the house. Right now I have 5 nests. 4 Doves and 1 hummingbird.

Probably a few more Hummingbird nests, but I haven't seen them.

They love to make nests in the trees and I have plenty.

May 10, 2018

Doves have been sitting on nest for three weeks go
by: Concerned homeowner

We have a male and female dove who have made their nest in our outdoor porch ceiling fan.

We’ve been observing them switch places day and night for about three weeks now but still no sound of baby doves?

Will they ever hatch? I read they usually hatch within two weeks. Do you think everything is ok?

May 09, 2018

Dove's nesting on my patio noe
by: Anonymous

I'm experiencing the same thing except I didn't see the eggs this year's. I got to see them hatch on 4/24 and 4/25 to grow and fly away on Monday 5/7. Does anyone know if she'll lay her next eggs at same nest?

May 08, 2018

Am I disturbing mourning dove nest ?
by: Sri

I was surprised to see mourning dove nesting in our shoe stand in my patio.

We shifted our shoes and emptied the space for them. They are sitting on the eggs changing shifts.

It’s really wonderful to see the birds. At first they use to fly even if they see my shadows but now I use my patio to water my plants and sit there for sometime and they don’t fly.

They are watching me all the time I stay in patio. Just curious am I disturbing them? Shall I use the patio or stop stepping in. I just don’t want to scare them.

May 05, 2018

doves
by: Gene

The answer is no. Adult birds do not sacrifice themselves for eggs.

May 05, 2018

Emaciated momma dove
by: Special k

I've had a nesting dove couple sitting on a nest for 1 mo. This morning momma was sitting on the edge, looking emaciated.

Papa came at one point this morning and sat on his mate in the nest. He looked to be cleaning her feathers.

I've been putting seeds and water right underneath the nest, but momma isn't taking anything. I'm thinking the eggs won't hatch at this point.

Will momma starve herself rather than give up on the babies?

May 03, 2018

dove nest
by: Gene

Doves do not use birdhouses as they are not cavity nesters. A Nesting Shelf may be an idea. Otherwise, as long as the male and female incubate, the eggs should be fine.

May 03, 2018

Dove nest in gutters
by: Dusty

The doves built a best in our house gutter. I am worried sick because it is pouring rain out and the dove has no protection.

I have many bird houses in the yard, yet every year they go build their nest in the gutter! Is that common?

I know there are eggs in the nest. Is there still a chance they'll be ok?

Apr 17, 2018

Dove nest on balcony one egg fell and broke
by: Mimi

A few days ago we noticed two morning doves starting a nest on top of the light fixture on our upstairs balcony.

Being an animal lover I let nature take its course and let them continue to build. I was super excited to the possibility of baby birds.

Well a couple of mornings ago I went up there to peek out the window to see how they were. Momma bird was sitting on nest and I noticed a broken egg on the ground. :-( I cleaned the broken egg up off the ground.

But now haven't seen the birds come back to nest. I haven't checked for other eggs but I didn't want to disturb the nest. Now I'm worried I scared them off.

Apr 15, 2018

dove nesting on my decks beam
by: Anonymous

I went out to put out my bird feeders and looked at the beam under my deck because last year robins had nested there but this year a morning dove has made her nest there. I talk with her each day when I take out the bird feeders.

Apr 11, 2018

hawks
by: Gene

Coopers and Sharp-shinned Hawks absolutely will prey on Mourning Doves. These two species typically hunt from trees and are fast.

Red-tailed hawks soar above as do Turkey Vultures. Red-tailed may occasionally take a bird but not a huge risk. Turkey Vultures don't take live prey.

We lose many Robins and Doves here from Coopers.

Apr 10, 2018

Missing our doves
by: Anonymous

Our pair of Mourning Doves came back this late March, hanging out on our back fence which backs up to a green space. Above the green space is a tree farm and above that large fir trees.

In the fir trees, there are hawks. Every afternoon, the hawks circle the tree farm and our neighborhood for prey. Would mourning doves be prey for hawks?

I ask this because suddenly the Mourning Doves are no where in site. I am hoping they resurface. One day they went back to the old nest site and one of them sat on it on our porch column.

I miss seeing them and hearing their "Coo" "Coo" in our neighborhood.

Apr 10, 2018

They're back 2018
by: Anonymous

We have doves in a planter. I made because they had been using my flower pots with the flowers in it.

So I made one in 2016. And they had two eggs an only one hatched. And the mom was killed by a snake or something, the dad tried to care for it.

We had to bring it in cause it was very cold that night! Put it back next morning, an it flew an we could not catch it but dad came to the rescue an they flew off together!

Next spring no doves! But this year they're back!

I'm so happy! they go off for long periods of time not sure if they will hatch! But will pray they do will know around 4/15 !

Sep 03, 2017

When will fledgling fly
by: Gene

Both male and female feed their young. When the time comes for the young to leave the nest, the adults will withhold food to encourage the young to leave.

The adults will sometimes perch where the young can see them holding food. The adults will also fly to the nest with food and quickly fly off with that food. But they won't allow the young to starve.

If you are around the nest site during this time, you can delay the fledgling.

Sep 03, 2017

Fledgling to flying
by: Anonymous

A mourning dove made a nest on my front porch where the support pillar meets the roof.

I was starting to think she was sitting on a sterile nest because, after more than two weeks, I saw no sign of a baby or babies.

Then, last week, I finally saw one fledgling, already about 2/3 the size of momma.

The momma bird was still sitting on the nest with her baby for the rest of the day. Next day, momma was gone and hasn't come back.

Baby just sits there. It has made no effort to fly. How long will it be before the fledgling attempts flight?

Aug 11, 2017

watering plants with doves nesing
by: Gene

First, never move nest and eggs. They will assume a predator attack and abandon the site.

Water around the edges and the plants and doves will be fine.

Aug 11, 2017

Mourning doves' eggs in my hanging basket
by: Flori

Hello. We found a nest with 2 eggs (and a dove sitting on top) in one of our hanging baskets. I'd rather not lose the plants in the basket but the birds come first.

Can I still water (lightly and without disturbing the nest)? I'm worried the eggs may be affected if the soil underneath and around is wet.

I did water it yesterday, not knowing about the bird or the nest/eggs. The momma bird flew out crazily when I took the hose to the basket. She came back after I left.

Then I investigated a bit, she flew away again and I saw the Eggs. Dad was close by too. One of them came back and today is still sitting on the eggs.

If the watering around the nest is no good, Can I move the nest and eggs to a close by location, assuming I can find one sheltered and mom/dad watch me do it so they can find it?
Thank you!

Aug 07, 2017

seed
by: Gene

Place seed several feet away as this can attract predators.

Aug 06, 2017

First Bird Nest!!
by: G

My brother found two mourning doves a week ago building a nest! We're super excited and we think the eggs are incubating now.

We can't really tell the difference between the mom and dad bird but I think the dad has a longer tail!

I'm so happy for them!! I named the mama bird Pizza and the dad is Mr. Sammich :)

Aug 06, 2017

Eggs in my hanging plant
by: Anonymous

I noticed a dove kept going in my hanging plant when it flew away I got a chair and looked and sure enough there are two eggs in a nest, I am so excited, I put some bird seed in the plant and she came back and was eating it, I can't wait to see the babies, but I will make sure her and her babies are not disturbed,

Aug 05, 2017

Mommy dove doesn't seem to ever leave nest !
by: Judi W

We, too, a doves nesting in a hanging plant and also discovered this sweet sight by watering the plant and seeing a dove come flying away. She ( or he) came back within a few minutes and I knew it was nesting.

I have worried as have only seen one bird, but have read here that the male relieves the female. We have never seen two together. I put out a small bowl of water, but read on another site that they absolute to relieve each other.

This little dove is so diligent and calm. She/he doesn't seem to fear my husband or me and just stares at us, rarely blinking! We're looking forward to babies....have kept our cats in for a week for safety to the bird family.

Jul 23, 2017

Nesting in hanging basket
by: Mandy

So 3 days ago I noticed 2 doves in my hanging basket right at my front door, they haven't left much other then during the day it's always the male in there, yesterday we noticed 2 eggs, needless to say we are excited to watch the eggs become birds, it is a little creepy at times cause they are right at the door and that's what you see when you open the door.

Jul 23, 2017

Hanging basket
by: Anonymous

I also have dove eggs in my hanging basket. Every evening we watch the male and female switch turns sitting on the eggs.

And when our lawn gets cut, the dove flies away and I use this opportunity to carefully water the plant. The dove always comes back.

It's been about 14 days so the eggs should be hatching any time now!

Jul 17, 2017

My little dove
by: Anonymous

I have a dove nesting in my hanging basket on my second story porch. It has been such a wonderful thing to watch her nest and when I go on the porch, she seems to look for me.

I'm worried about watering, also. I can't see eggs yet but my plant is pretty high up. I've loved reading about everyone's experiences!

Jul 12, 2017

Something wrong in nest
by: Anonymous

I have a morning dove nest in a hanging basket. I see the pair in my yard all day but they don't go in nest.

There is what looks like a big squab in the nest that does not appear to move. But there are also 2-3 small white eggs.

Something seems off. The male was also courting the female on Sunday. Cooing strutting puffing up.

Jul 05, 2017

3rd set
by: Nicole

We are on our 3rd set of eggs in just the last few months. And she laid 3 eggs this time, versus 2 the last two.

Jun 28, 2017

watering
by: Gene

I would try to water from the side. As long as the nest doesn't get wet things should be okay. He/she should return if they've been incubating awhile.

Jun 28, 2017

Mama in my plant out front!
by: Cindy

I have a dove in my hanging plant out on my front porch. I'd say it's been about a week and a half since I've noticed eggs in the nest.

Maybe we'll see babies soon!! My only problem is it's been in the 100's here in California and I desperately need to water that plant.

I haven't touched it since mama moved in, afraid of disturbing her. Does anyone know if I will ruin the nest or eggs, or if trying to shoo her just long enough to water it would keep her from coming back?

Jun 27, 2017

Hatching
by: Dale Jag

Rick, Don't worry too much about it. I had some that took longer. And remember that after they do hatch, the parent will sit on them for a while and you will not be able to see them.

BTW, if any one is following my birds on the North side, they flew off a couple days ago when it was 122 degrees. Not that it was any cooler under the rafters.

Jun 27, 2017

details
by: Gene

@Rick, more details. How long (not guessing) have the eggs been incubating? Should be about 2 weeks and then the female will brood for a couple of days.

Jun 27, 2017

taking a while to hatch
by: Rick Gulnick

im worried they wont hatch, it's been awhile please answer

Jun 25, 2017

New parents are deterimined
by: Deellu

We are excited to see where this goes. After a couple attempts at gently suggesting the doves move along we have decided to let nature take its course and have the doves move into our hanging petunia basket and start their family.

Hopefully good karma will keep the birds safe and that our backyard area can be enjoyed by all of us.

Jun 05, 2017

Doves that love petunias
by: Dan

I was surprised when I saw a makeshift nest in my hanging petunia just outside my front door.

A day later, a mourning dove was nestled into it, nice and snug, and within a couple days, two little eggs.

Between the male and the female switching off for their daily nesting rituals, both of them have become very accustomed to me.

They have let me water the hanging basket with a pitcher, for which I am very thankful, and each in turn allows me to deadhead the petunia while watching me from the relative security of the nest.

I'm looking forward to seeing the two little ones when they arrive, which should be any day now.

Jun 03, 2017

My Doves
by: Jim

My doves have a nest in a rain gutter under the patio cover. They laid 2 eggs in early April, but only 1 hatched.

Unfortunately, a week after the chick left the nest it flew into the barbecue and broke its neck and died.

They are at it again, so I hope they have better luck this time. They tolerate me watering plants within feet of them. I feel very blessed that they have chosen this site for their family.

I have also had numerous Doves at various low hanging places around the yard.

May 29, 2017

Video
by: Dale Jag

E Mail me for the video location. Birds@MailByChoice.com

May 29, 2017

Mourning doves attacked
by: celia

I am so grateful to find this site. I've been heartbroken after 2 mourning doves built a nest right outside my front door on a 2nd floor. They tolerated my coming/going, had 2 eggs, which hatched.

They were close to 2 weeks old, both parents always attentive. I heard a huge ruckus outside my door and ran to witness a huge crow or other large black bird with the parent in its claws, being carried away.

Also 2 blue jays in flight. One baby gone, the other on the ground. I scooped that one up in a towel. Eventually the other parent returned so I put the 2nd babe back.

They were together till night. When I came home late the 2nd parent was gone. In the morning 2nd baby was gone.

The sight of the 1st parent being attacked and stolen was traumatizing. The location of the nest seemed so protected. I know "the cycle of life" but this was awful.

May 28, 2017

Just video taped my bird laying an egg
by: Dale Jag

Finally, after many nests that I have video recorded, I found my birds on the North Side of my house lay an egg.

Another should be arriving soon (usually within 24 hours). I have the video on my Face Book page. Look for Dale Jag in Cathedral City, CA.

May 27, 2017

Missing eggs
by: Anonymous

I came home to find my morning dove and her eggs gone!. Is it possible the mom moved the eggs? But how? The nest which was in a grapevine in my yard , was intact and undisturbed. Has anyone else had this happen?

May 23, 2017

hatching
by: Gene

Even when they hatch, the female will brood the young. They are born featherless and eyes closed. It may be a few days after hatching that you see their heads.

If the eggs are no longer viable, they'll either abandon the site or remove the eggs and try again. No way of knowing what they'll choose.

May 23, 2017

More than 2 weeks- no hatching?
by: Arlene

Hi everyone, I live in a suburb and have a mourning Dove nest over my lantern on my front porch. We have been careful to keep the light off since we noticed her but can't be sure we didn't have it on at some point.

She has been guarding her eggs, assuming with her mate, for over two weeks now. I'm a little concerned about the eggs. I understand it's a two week nesting. Before the eggs hatch?

Is it true that a bird knows if her eggs are not viable? If she is still here, does it mean they're still a good chance of hatching?

Much thanks as I'm a first time nester:)

May 13, 2017

They'll be back
by: Dale

The have to come back. Those eggs have to be rotated all the time. I thought about every hour but maybe longer. Stay away from the nest so they won't be afraid to come back.

May 12, 2017

2 eggs, birds gone, then a 3rd egg?
by: LadybugSAR

Hi guys! We are excited as well to find two eggs in my plant pot with mint!

We saw the Mom/Dad rotate for a few days then they disappeared for a few days. Still haven't seen them but I checked the pot this morning thinking they aren't coming back and found a 3rd egg!

Where did that come from? Wonder if they are still watching over them but not nesting? This is a "first" for us...any thoughts guys! TIA!

Apr 28, 2017

2 babies flew the coop, 2 getting ready to and 2 just EGGS!!!
by: Dale Jag

Don't feel too bad if the youngins get killed off. I read that they only have a 50% chance of making it to flight.

Last year I was batting about 75% so far this your 2 already took off and 2 are ready any day to leave. AND I have 2 eggs in the waiting!

I put them on my facebook page (Dale Jagodzinski) if you care to see the videos and all are public. I don't usually friend anyone unless I know them. But there is a good close up of both parents feeding both babies. Fun to check out.

Apr 27, 2017

one dove was killed
by: Lynn

I am so upset to find that one of the doves that is nesting in my backyard has been killed. The other is still sitting on the nest. I feel awful.

Apr 09, 2017

Sad in Sacramento
by: Darcey

I'm so sad. The beautiful dove mommy nesting in the tall cedar about two feet outside our bedroom window was killed and half eaten sometime last night.

There's all these feathers... I feel sick. I would look at her and smile every time I came in the room. Now I don't want to come in the room.

I used to see her mate come and visit her, and my husband just saw him next to the nest with his half eaten mate. 😩 I don't know if it was a squirrel or a crow.

Apr 08, 2017

April 7th post
by: Dale Jag

To who ever posted about the fishing lines:
In the past, I have had the birds set up a nest on a ledge that was way too small to allow their kids grow up.

I have added an extra extension ledge for them. Maybe, if you can, replace the fishing lines with a shelf or something. Just include all their twigs so they can still recognize their nest.

Apr 07, 2017

Any Suggestions? From N.C
by: Anonymous

That is so wonderful! My husband has his fishing poles up under our porch hanging. We have noticed a dove that made a nest on top of fishing poles at this time. We need to get the fishing poles down. Can anybody suggest what to do?

Mar 25, 2017

Returned families
by: Dale Jag

Last year (June 2016) I posted a few times about my birds on camera. This year I have 2 more families back.

One in the exact same place in the South Yard which only have 2 eggs so far and the other within 2 feet of where they were last year and 2 babies already looking around the area.

Those 2 are on the West end of the house. I'll get some video up when something interesting happens.

Mar 22, 2017

My spider plant nest
by: Anonymous

2week today, I found the tell-tale sign of nesting doves! Very excited to be a first time "mother" and even better to have learned so much from all of your posts! Hoping the eggs hatch in the next few days.

I live on the second floor of a quiet condo and do worry once the babies hatch.

It's a long way down if they fall from the nest and not a lot of places for them to hide if they do fall-parking lot below and not much shade after 1pm.

I too worried about plant watering but finally last night decided to put 1 cup of water in the base plate below the plant ( 2 gallon planter) - reasoning that the roots will drink up and not disturb the eggs on top. So far so good. More later.

Nov 02, 2016

Newly laid eggs eaten by South African Rain Bird
by: Yvonne McLean

My son has recently made a wire nest for the doves once he heard the mourning doves trying to make a nest on our Spanish bars - twig after twig falling down.

The nest was very welcomed by the parents where they raised their babies - he even mounted a camera to view their growth, two years the babies flew out of their nest,

then the third batch of eggs, my son saw a huge bird on the nest and screamed for us to help - it was the RAIN BIRD - he ate the first egg - yolk dripping down -

we managed to scare him, but he came back for the second egg - we were all very depressed after that.

Sep 15, 2016

No hatching
by: Anonymous

So sad tonight:( Mourning Dove mom and Dad have been diligently sitting on two eggs laid August 20. Today, after 3 1/2 weeks, they fled the nest. Should we take the eggs out or wait

A few weeks? They had had success earlier in the summer but not this time. I hope they come back next spring.

Sep 06, 2016

evening agression
by: Sarah

We rescued a mourning dove (Squeaks) & he's been with us for over 2 months now. My husband made him a dove box, but he rarely goes in it.

He usually just takes up residency on our screened in back porch, if you leave the door open he just flies or walks right into the house like that's where he belongs.

What I was wondering is why after he is so nice & friendly during the day & at night he makes a pecking motion & seems really mean, then the next day, he's his sweet self again.

Aug 10, 2016

Mission complete!!
by: Laura

On July 18th I added a post regarding the doves that were nesting in a plant on my balcony.. They have since hatched.. about 10 days ago and the last one flew off yesterday with the encouragement of his parent.. WOW.. they grew fast!!!

Aug 10, 2016

might have hatched
by: Gene

They may be sitting on the squabs. If the eggs are not viable, they will decide in time and leave.

Aug 10, 2016

Mourning Doves
by: Tricia

2 doves are taking turns sitting on 2 white eggs in my hanging planter! But I'm concerned, as they have been there since the first of July. Comments?

Aug 01, 2016

Dove eggs
by: Anonymous

Yes a dove also has two eggs in my hanging planter

Jul 19, 2016

Time Length of nest
by: Dale Jagodzinski

Plan on about a month from the start of the building of the nest to the time the babies fly away. Google "Mourning Dove" and read some fascinating articles about doves. Things you have never known.

Jul 19, 2016

doves on ceiling fan on patio
by: Anonymous

How long are they going to be there? I had to go out of town and when I got back. The nest was built and the dove took up residency.

Jul 18, 2016

Must be that time of year..
by: Laura

We also have doves nesting in a potted plant on our balcony..They built the nest last week and within a day or two there was 2 eggs.. I tried to contact a dove association but got no response. This is a brilliant site.

The plant in question is right on the outside of the slider.. I'm trying to give the parents as much privacy as possible but I do have to water the other plants..I was worried that the eggs would not hatch when I did scare her out of the nest..

Worried that it was too cold to be left for too long..Looking forward to see what happens...

Jul 13, 2016

2 new nests the other day
by: Dale Jagodzinski

Just as the last round of birds finishing up and the babies leaving the coop, 2 more new nests sprung up. As of yesterday, each of the 2 nests had 1 egg. By now I expect the usual 2.

Reading about them, they usually lay one in the evening and the next one the following day. Last 2 days the mom was organizing the nest while dad flew off and got twigs. I wish they would use the old ones they keep dropping, but oh well....

Dad brings the twig, walks on moms back, steps off on another area then flies off and back usually within 1 min. Why mom doesn't get tired of this, I have no idea.

Mom then takes the twig and sorts it somewhere in the nest and occasionally turns around the nest to give it some form. I love watching them on my cameras all day.

Jul 12, 2016

Update on my doves and squab
by: Anonymous

This dove pair are so sweet! Their squab is practicing his flying in a tree in my backyard and dad is up on the neighbor's roof cooing. Mom is out and about.

I accidentally startled her yesterday when I got back from the store and she was looking again on the porch. At least one of their babies is thriving:)

Thank you for the info, this site has been great. And by the way, they were not near the nest or nesting when dad was on mom. I am learning and experiencing bird life for the first time
Through these doves so I am no expert.

I just thought they looked like they were breeding?! Obviously, I need to do some research:) we are not touching the nest in hopes that they choose it again.

Jul 12, 2016

Update on Mourning Doves on my Air conditioner
by: Terri Berry

After the babies hatched, we were able to see the Papa and the Mama feed them.

This is so amazing how both parent's producer the nourishment the babies need. After about two weeks, we woke to an empty best and a lot of Bird poop!

The poop had actually fallen down into the fan area of the unit.

After cleaning it, the parents returned, ready to build again, stick by stick.

Well, it was time for them to move on, so we put a plastic piece up on top of the unit to prevent them from clogging it up more.

We enjoyed watching the birds grow, and with all of the other places around, hope they don't take the eviction personally, and find a more suitable place.

Jul 12, 2016

Building a nest
by: DL

When the pair of Dove are building a nest, the male stands on the females back as he brings her straw and twigs to weave into their nest. I don't know why, but it is NOT mating.

Jul 11, 2016

Update on June 26, 2016 posting of 3 Birds Living at My Place
by: Dale Jagodzinski

I have cameras on my birds so I can document all the things that happen during the night or whenever.

My 2 babies on the West end of the house were attacked by a rat (could have been a mouse but what ever) during the night about 2:30am. One was caught but later I found it got away unharmed.

When the attack began, the smaller of the 2 saw the rat and began flapping it's wings, startling the larger baby to fly away. Neither were ready to fly.

In the morning when I saw the nests empty I began to look around for the kids. After about a 10 minute search I found the larger one that flew away stuck between 2 pieces of ply wood.

Successfully rescuing the baby I placed it back in the nest. I spent another 5 or 10 min looking for the other bird but could not find it.

Thinking the worse that the rat probably ran off with it. I left the area of the nest to give the parents a chance to come back to the nest and find the rescued bird and went to my cameras and seen what had happened.

At that time I realized the bird probably got away because about 5 min after the attack the rat came back sniffing around the nest looking for something. Now where was that damn cat when you needed him! LOL.

After seeing on live camera that the parents have found the baby and will return to take care of it, I began looking for the other missing bird that was attacked.

Remember, It's over 100 degrees here and not good for them to be alone for a long time.

After about an hr search I found the smaller of the 2 babies just below the nest that walked toward me after hiding in some debris. I put it back in the nest.

About 2 min later both parents arrived at the nest just jumping all over everybody. It was really a sight to see.

I've never seen 2 happier parents. The following day the larger of the 2 babies took off flying and by looking at the cams the parents were guiding the bird around. So all should be OK with that one.

The next day, the smaller of the 2 decided to fly out again, but without the parents supervision. It hid under a car from what I could see with my cameras using what it had recorded hours ago.

I went outside looking for the bird which was about 2 hours after it flew out from the nest. Found the bird in my front yard.

I was standing about 2 feet from it and noticed the mom watching it about 2 feet from the baby. Figured all is well and went back int the house to watch it on camera.

The baby still could not fly and hopped over to a wood pile that was elevated about 6 inches off the ground.

Mom must have lost track of it as I waited about 4 more hours for her to return to the wood pile. Again, it's about 4pm now and about 110 degrees.

Parents were about 75 feet from the baby and seemed like they were still looking for it near the nest.

This time I went to the wood pile and caught the bird and with a small syringe, I dribbled water on it's beak. It looked like it was opening and closing it's beak drinking the water.

Poor thing hadn't had anything for hours and it was very hot. I placed it back in the nest and the parent were there within minutes. Sigh of relief!

Jul 11, 2016

Missing Squab
by: Gene

Could be that the other squab is in a shrub or tree somewhere else. If there are a lot of cats running loose in your area, that could be a problem also.

Hawks and cats are the most worrisome predators for squabs since they may sit on the ground for several days after fledging.

Jul 10, 2016

Missing baby, sad
by: Anonymous

We have a pair of mourning doves who just hatched 2 eggs.

The fledglings were in the nest( in the column of the porch) but then yesterday we came home to find the babies sitting on the chair on our porch. They stayed like that for about 2 hours and disappeared.

Today we see the parents with only one baby which they are feeding. The other one is no where in sight:(

This is my first experience watching this whole process; best building, laying eggs, transfer of mom and dad to sit on eggs and now to lose a baby seems sad.

Dad did come up on porch this a.m. and he seemed to be looking for the missing one? I have a hunch they will have more as I saw Dad trying to breed w mom later today.

Jul 09, 2016

Dove eggs
by: Mary T

Yesterday, 7/8/16, I found 2 dove eggs in one of my hanging baskets as well. Have no idea when they were laid. Mama dove & I were both startled; but she quickly came back. I can't wait to see the babies; but HOW? & How do, or CAN I ever water that plant again?

Jun 26, 2016

3 bird families living at my place!
by: Dale Jagodzinski

I live in the Palm Springs, CA area, I'm an electronic nut so the first thing I did is put a security camera on the nest.

Cams are about 1 foot from the birds and they don't seem to mind. I put them on my facebook page (Dale Jagodzinski) if you care to see the videos and all are public.

Some are priceless. One is bad. A video of a cat getting in the nest. They may have made it because I had a lot of places for them to hide.

Left water in some plastic lids for them to find, if they were still there.

A note to people that have them in hanging plants....Try going to Home Depot or wherever and set up a drip watering system.

You'll probably scare the bird away for a short time, but have it all ready to be installed.

Then you can water daily without disturbing the nest.

BTW last Monday we had 123 degrees and one bird is on the south end of the house. VERY HOT!

I temporarily set up a mister system for the bird. I think she was happy!

Jun 20, 2016

Eggs under bean bag game
by: Anonymous

We found 12 dove eggs under a bean bag game. One day and several days later there were 2 more.

They are not white they are spotted , but saw the dove sitting on them. We live in AZ and it is is extremely Hot. Hoping they will hatch.

Jun 02, 2016

Flower it mourning birds
by: karen

I have been reading some of these comments and everyone is talking about 1 or 2 eggs. I counted 8 this morning so is that unusual? Maybe because we live in Az. and have warmer climate?

May 18, 2016

On my window air conditioner
by: Terri Berry

The second day of moving into my new home, we noticed two Mourning Doves on top of our window air conditioner.

When we opened the blinds to get a better look, they flew away. So we closed them hoping they returned and they did.

The next day there was a wreath looking nest in the same spot.

Later that afternoon, one of the bird's was on top of the twiggy wreath looking nest. I thought to myself, maybe because of the way the vent felt underneath the bird, she made a cushion!

To our surprise, later that evening and egg was there! We lifted the blinds and she flew away.

We decided to leave the blinds elevated so we could watch. Early the next morning, my daughter and I witnessed the second egg being laid.

When Mama finished, she flew away. When we returned, she was back. This time, she was watching us!

It's been four day's now, and we've caught them switching up, taking turns.

They are used to us looking at them daily now, we even named them Else and Frank. They never move, just blink there eye's. We can't wait until the eggs hatch.

May 11, 2016

One bird didn't make it
by: Anonymous

Should I remove the dead bird on the patio? The other is fine. Thanks.

May 08, 2016

Mourning Doves
by: Anonymous

About a week ago went to water a plant on my front porch, I saw the back of the doves tale, didn't know what kind of bird it was at the time, did some research, found out it was a Mourning Dove, and that the Male sits on the nest all day, and the Female sits at night.

I have not seen the eggs because my basket is hanging to high, I think they have another week before the eggs will hatch.

I've taken loads of pictures to share with my family and friends. I am loving this experience.

May 07, 2016

More Than Two Weeks
by: Gene

This happens a lot. Some doves stay after the young hatch and you don't see the squabs. If you watch closely, maybe with binoculars, you might see a squab poke its head out.

Next thing you know, they're gone.

Gene
wild-bird-watching.com

May 07, 2016

Curious Bird Watcher
by: Anonymous

I have a dove nested in my patio. It's been over almost three weeks since we first noticed it, I don't this it was there for much longer than that.

It's in a spot where we cannot see if their are eggs inside. Of course the nest never goes unguarded by momma or poppa.

I keep reading incubation is 14 days. Anyone know if I should be concerned? I obviously can and won't do anything to disrupt Mother Nature, just curious.

Apr 23, 2016

Birds on wood pile
by: Anonymous

We have a very large wood pile on our covered front porch. Doves made a nest there about 2 weeks ago and we have 2 eggs. It is less than 2 feet from our front door, at eye height, but well protected from sight from off of the porch.

We talk to them as we enter and exit to get them accustomed to people moving by. Last year they nested and got scared off after laying only 1 egg. We warn guests and delivery people.

I only got a picture of the eggs when a pizza guy didn't see it and freaked out when he saw it move. Since then we warn people and the doves are doing great!!!! Can't wait for babies!

Apr 19, 2016

Twigs on my electric meter
by: Nancy M

About 10 days ago, I was surprised by a dove flying out of foliage on my fence. Looked and found they had made nest on top of electric meter under eave of house. Am watching carefully because I have little dogs who would love to go after them.

Apr 13, 2016

Mourning Dove on truck
by: Anonymous

I have a mourning dove who is sitting on 2 eggs in a nest of twigs that was built around the antenna of my truck.

This truck is parked in my yard on an open drive way. I have several trees around my house, hanging baskets, and bushes, but he/she chose to make the nest and lay eggs in a wide open space with no protection.

Now I can't use the truck until the babies are old enough to fly away. I thought this was quite unusual.

Apr 04, 2016

Florida success story
by: Anonymous

I have had repeated visits from Mourning Doves nesting and raising babies in my car port hanging baskets.

I have a Master Gardener friend tell me they are opportunistic, and will build where they feel protected from the elements and can see predators. Wish I could post pics here, they are so sweet!

Mar 25, 2016

Truck...
by: Tom W

I've been knocking down a doves nest located at the bottom of the windshield on my truck. My wife finally told me to leave it alone.

Within 24 hours we had a completed nest and one egg. Two days later we have a second egg...wife says I can't drive my truck... Boo..... I did move it out of the driveway so we could get a tree removed.

Drove it back in and momma dove sat on the house just waiting. They're back on the nest.....

Mar 22, 2016

Abandonded??
by: Tessie

I heard the cooing of the parents and peeked outside and saw Mama fly off the plant! I was so excited to see an egg - but haven't seen her or dad back and it's been a few days!

It was very cold the past few nights but I was advised to leave the nest alone....I have put the basket in the sun, and am hoping for the best. Any advice? Great site, thank you!

Feb 21, 2016

Where did the baby go????
by: Anonymous

We had a nest in our window box! 2 eggs.. One hatched we saw them feeding the baby today at the switch the baby was gone checked the ground no sign! The other egg still has not hatched parents are still sitting!

Aug 30, 2015

Omen
by: Anonymous

Spotted dove gave birth to 2 babies in our flower tub is a good or bad omen

Jul 23, 2015

Can I water my plants?
by: Amanda

So I found an egg in our herb garden planter that hangs over our porch railing today. At first I was annoyed but now all I want is for this little egg to hatch and for the baby to survive.

My question is can I water my herbs though? I really don't want them to die just because some doves decided they want to nest in my garden.

Jul 10, 2015

Nothing you can do
by: Aaron Vick

There is nothing you can do but wait. They can't desert the nest very long for the eggs to survive, especially if it is cold.

The male and female sit on the nest so one or the other may show up to relieve the other and start to sit on the nest. Just give it time.

It's just mother nature if they don't make it.

The good news is that most of the time the same pair of birds will nest at the same location as long as it has not been disturbed.

Jul 05, 2015

Nice story.
by: Aaron Vick

Wow! What a great story. I am surprised the doves came back to the nest. They are very trusting after a while.

Jul 04, 2015

Eggs viable or not?
by: Anonymous

It's been at least three weeks since doves laid eggs in a hanging pot near my bathroom window.

Should I be concerned that the eggs are somehow not viable? Would I hear the babies if they have hatched? Please help and thanks!

Jul 04, 2015

Love the Dove!
by: FiftySparks

I took down my hanging basket this morning to keep it from getting flooded from the rain running off my roof.

I nearly dropped it when I realized it had two dove eggs in it! Once the sun came out, I hung it up again and now a Dove is sitting on the eggs.

I just hope they hatch as when the wind blows hard here (often) or it rains I have to take the basket down.....

Jun 27, 2015

Re: Bird watcher
by: Anna

It's a reply to the comment by Bird watcher. If it has been 19 days since nesting, eggs have probably hatched and parents are keeping the babies warm by sitting above them.

I just saw our newborn chicks today (15 days since I've noticed the eggs). I thought that they didn't hatch but they hatched just in time! Babies look 1-2 days old.

The male dove flew away, I took a few pictures, and the female dove came 40 minutes later. Both babies were breathing and had their eyes closed.

Jun 15, 2015

DOVES CLIMBING HIGH!
by: Anonymous

We have a pair of Doves who have nested on a ladder in our garage! We can't wait for the hatchlings to arrive! We keep a side door open 24/7. Hopefully the heat will not bother them....

Jun 13, 2015

Eggs haven't hatched!!
by: Bird watcher

It's been 19 days and they haven't hatched!! Should I be worried? The nest is in a bird feeder that's hanging on a shepherds hood. Birds are still sitting on the 24/7.

Jun 04, 2015

Watering plant
by: Name

I should of made myself clearer. You can water your plant but do it with a light mist that will eventually saturate the plant. If you spray a heavy spray they will leave the nest.

Jun 04, 2015

happy bird watcher
by: Aaron Vick

Shaila,
Be careful not to water your plant and disturb them or they will abandon the nest. Did you know the male and female sit on the eggs?

If you watch them close enough you will see them exchange duties but it happens very quickly and only every 12 or 24 hours. Enjoy!

Jun 02, 2015

Labor and Delivery
by: Shaila

I have enjoyed my new squatters who built a nest in my house plant that I sat out for a few days to get some sun. I woke up one morning and realized the nest was built.

Initially I was upset and appalled because this plant held such sentimental value from a loved one. I dismantled the nest that night not knowing what type of bird had built it.

Much to my dismay when I awoke the next morning, a nest was rebuilt and a Mourning Dove was sitting there. In shock, I grabbed my camera and eased out to take a photo.

I got pretty close to her before she flew away... I then looked at the nest only to find an egg!!! I almost fainted!!! I was so rattled.

I had never had an experience like this ever with nature.... Well we have been enjoying each other daily and I am finding out so much about them.

Needless to say, I am fascinated and look forward to bird watching each day as I leave the door open and can see her as she is about 4 feet from me, but doesn't fly off...oh, she did lay another egg this morning.
An amazing experience...

Jul 13, 2014

mounring doves
by: Anonymous

I live in phoenix az, I have seen mourning birds all my life since I was a kid and they are amazing to watch.

I get the mourning doves on my wall on my back yard and they are to funny to watch sometimes because they do their love kissing thing.

I worry about them around monsoon season though I have a leaf cactus outside my front yard and they are building a nest and a monsoon came and swept it all away and the poor bird know what to do,. it came too fast.

After that I built a nest for them out of my hanging bird feeder and put it high up in my orange tree and added pine needles and cotton making sure I was careful not to use my hands.

I don't know if I did the right thing or not but it guarded with leaves to cover the nest hopefully that will help them.

I love when they come and visit me. I watch them for hours they are so amazing, am I doing the wrong thing?

Jul 03, 2012

Crows feed baby doves to their babies
by: Anonymous

After watching the doves on their two eggs they finally hatched yesterday. Today, I went outside and two giant crows were at the nest so I scared them away. I think they got one baby. Not sure.

But one is still there. Called Bird wildlife rescue and found out crows feed baby birds to their babies.

I made a scarecrow and several reflective things to put around the nest in hopes they will stay away. Praying for the protection of the baby that is left. Makes me sick...

Apr 11, 2012

Crows are the devil
by: Anonymous

This is the second season we've had mourning doves nest in a hanging basket by the kitchen door. They tolerate us going back and forth quietly and are so sweet to watch.

Last year, crows got the babies when they were 4 days old. This year, the babies have hatched and no sign of crows until just this morning, a crow sitting casually nearby, checking out the situation.

I want so badly to protect these doves! I'm about to get a slingshot or something! However I can't sit here 24/7. The crows are patient and cunning.

We've seen how they operate, in teams: one attacks, scaring the parents who fly off the nest trying to decoy the crow. Then the second crow flies in to snatch the little babies.

I read that only about 30% of baby doves survive. Anybody know how to get rid of crows?

Aug 16, 2011

watering plants with nest
by: Anonymous

My nesting dove allows me to water every evening. I talk very softly to her and tell her "it is alright", she just looks at me and doesn't move a feather.

I am hoping she will allow me to water when the babies are hatched, as my window boxes are so beautiful right now.

Jul 17, 2011

Sad Discovery
by: Anonymous

This morning when I poured my coffee and checked the nest to say hello as I always do and listen for their coos, I noticed no sign of the mother or father bird. It was a sad awakening.

They had been nesting for third time in my arbor over the entryway where they had a well hidden
nest in the wisteria.

At closer inspection there was dead larger baby bird beneath the nest on the ground and covered with ants. A very sad start to my day. They are all gone.

It was my mistake to set out a dish of wild bird seed and not notice aggressive scrub jays and crows.

The dish was on a wall not far from the nest.

Never again as I witnessed their bad behavior toward squirrels, smaller birds, etc.

Just two days ago I witnessed the cutest love dance between the mother and father dove on the retaining wall below.

The husband would playfully ruffle the feathers by repeatedly nudging at her neck. it was a dance of love.

Wish someone would write in as to how to better protect them. No bird seeds near by!

Wild-Bird-Watching
All About Doves

May 24, 2011

black crow attacking Dove nest
by: cynthia

I'm beside myself to have witnessed the tail end of a crow attacking my morning dove bird nest.

They chose to nest in my hanging basket outside my kitchen window hanging off of a thick tree branch surrounded by other foliage.

Today I heard a loud bang against the window. By the time I ran into the kitchen to look out the window, all I saw was the black crow flapping its wings and taking off.

I held my breath, went outside, looked in the nest and saw two eggs.

This has upset me all day trying to figure out what an effective deterrent would be to keep the crows away.

I worry because Crows are intelligent with good memories, the doves may abandon their nest.

I'm also worried the Doves will return and I'll witness a horrible battle. How can I protect my doves and their eggs from these nasty black crows?

I realize survival of the fitness and nature has to take its course, but I need to attempt to save them ASAP.

May 13, 2011

love the doves
by: lovey dovey

I love morning doves most of all. There used to be 10s of them in our yard in the 70's...now they are rare... I was meditating on them and wishing some would appear here in my new home...then to my delight they came!

Then to my joy they chose the hanging basket right outside my bedroom! They are so lovely and trusting.

In this world of grief they are a sweet song...no wonder doves are the symbols of love....

Jul 07, 2010

Nesting Dove update
by: Anonymous

Our babies still hang out. Unfortunately one of our mating Doves was killed, I suspect, by a cat. The Dove that was left got help with the second set of babies by one of her babies from the first set.

Jul 07, 2010

Doves won't hurt you
by: Aaron

The parenting doves won't be bothered by you since they are so use to you going in and out. The chicks on the other hand can sometimes get spooked and attempt to fly away before they are ready.

The doves I had nesting would let me get a few feet away from the nest to see the chicks.

Jul 07, 2010

Dove Nest
by: Butterflygirl

We recently discovered to have a nest from a pair of light gray doves. The nest is right outside our door by our light. We pass right by them everyday. There are 2 eggs.

I am a little concerned at what will happen once the eggs hatch. Will they start to attack us when we come in and out of the house?

May 29, 2010

Our nesting Doves
by: Barbara

Our nesting Doves are on their 2nd set of babies. We finally have the Jay birds scared away. We hung CDs all the way around the patio. I do enjoy watching them but our yard is a mess.

May 29, 2010

Hatching morning dove eggs
by: Q Young

How long does it take morning dove eggs to hatch?
We have a morning dove nesting in a hanging basket right beside our front door. She has been there 2 weeks.

May 29, 2010

Doves In My Basket
by: Pam

This morning we discovered the Mourning Doves in our hanging basket!

We saw birds ripping at the liners two days ago and then this morning we watched the changing of the guard between the male and female.

Of course this year my baskets look the best they ever had, and I do not want to lose the plants I planted.

I will mist that basket and hope not to disturb them too much! They are gorgeous!

May 08, 2010

Jay birds are a threat
by: Barbara

I have nesting pair of Doves in my patio. But there is a Jay bird determined to attack them. I've hung a plastic owl and CD's to scare it off. Is there anything else I can do to protect them?

Aug 16, 2009

answer to your question
by: Aaron Vick

If you decide to get rid of the egg, do it asap. They put a lot of time and effort into watching and taking care of the eggs.

It will be easier on you if you do it soon. They nest 2 sometimes 3 times a year. Don't worry just do it quick before you get attached.

If you can afford to leave the plant then do so. Good luck.

Bird Lover!

Aug 16, 2009

I scared them off. Don't water.
by: Anonymous

I scared the birds off this year. It made me very upset. Next year my plant will die before those birds leave.

They are such a joy to watch. I miss them so much. I like the eyes they are deep and very defined. I was able to get up to 2 feet away and watch them. :-}

Aug 15, 2009

doves in window sill
by: PAM

We have been enjoying a family of morning doves nesting on our window at our summer lake house. There were two eggs which hatched. My family loved watching the babies feed and grow.

Last week the babies finally left the nest. We were excited to see them fly away, because we are having new windows installed in two weeks.

We thought all was well, however today the mother bird is back and a new egg is in the nest.

We don't want to harm the egg but need to have them out before the windows arrive. Any suggestions as to the best thing to do?

Would love to move the nest, however I don't think that would work. Is it better to remove the egg and nest before it hatches?

I feel so cruel harming her egg. Anyone have help?

p

Jun 21, 2009

Don't water.
by: Anonymous

By the way, the male and the female sit on the nest. They usually take 12 hour shifts. They switch out so fast you didn't even know it.

Sometimes they look different but most times they are identical. I had one once that had a skinny neck. HA HA!

To answer your question, I had two who nested again this year at my door and part of the reason they left was because I tried to water my plant lightly without bothering them.

I was successful sometimes but on three occasions the bird left the nest.

The third time I watered and they left they never came back. I guess they decided the eggs wouldn't survive. My wife is still mad at me.

She won't let me remove the eggs she is hoping they will come back. The eggs have been sitting in that nest for 2 weeks without a bird in site.

Good luck!

Jun 20, 2009

Dove in a Basket!
by: Karen

Wow! I am surprised to see so many doves in hanging baskets. It really was a pleasant surprise when I spotted our gal, yet alone 2 eggs. My question is if it okay to water the basket? I don't want to scare her or cool the eggs.

Help.

Jun 08, 2009

Don't get too attached.
by: Aaron V

Don't get too attached. They sometimes don't make it. A crow ate the birds the first time.

This year they abandon the nest with two eggs because I relocated the basket and they didn't feel comfortable enough with the auto watering of my plants.

Jun 07, 2009

Loving my birds
by: Anonymous

I don't have any hanging baskets. But I do have a Mourning Dove nesting in the light fixture on the house by my door. She's so pretty and fun to watch.

We can go in and out all day and night and she never leaves. I talk to her all the time. I'm going to miss her if she ever left me.

Waiting to see her little ones. Seems like the birds love me this year. I have them nesting all over my yard.

Jul 02, 2008

Momma's Gone
by: Karen

We have two little doves in our hanging basket. They are about a week and a half old. We haven't seen the parents all day and the little one's don't fly yet. Any ideas?

Jun 02, 2008

A Crow ate the baby birds.
by: Aaron

I am just now getting over the death of the baby birds that I watched for weeks. They were just about ready to leave the nest and a Crow ate them in front of my very eyes.

I heard one of the babies hit the window and when I went out the door to see what had happened the two baby birds now on the ground tried their best to fly from away from danger but but the crow was much to fast and ate them both.

It was a very sad day at my house. They tried to nest again a few weeks later but the bird egg was broken.

I am not sure what happened. We look forward to seeing them again soon.

Jun 02, 2008

Morning Doves
by: Kim Schultz

I am super excited I fell upon this website. I couldn't believe my eyes when I went to take down our planter from last year (I guess we were a little lazy) but to my surprise a nest and a dove.

I guess worth it. It is also at our front door, I couldn't believe it. They are so trusting and beautiful.

I was also nervous that they would leave because of us going in and out of the front door, but it didn't seem to bother them.

I also started talking to them and saying hello every time I went by. I think they liked it.

I noticed one day that she was getting really big, so I assumed that she was sitting on them and then the next thing I knew it there was two babies sitting in the planter, just hanging out.

I watched them for a day, took a few pictures, and then the next day they were gone. Then this morning, I noticed Momma and one of the babies on the deck. She was feeding!

I didn't see the other one, but I am sure it is exploring. I guess I didn't realize they could fly so soon.

So, now that they are out and about, can I take that planter down? Or do they use it all year? If I take it down, will they come back next year?

Is there a bird house I can put out for them? If anyone has any advice, I would appreciate it. What a fun spring!

Apr 28, 2008

NESTING DOVES
by: MARY MELEE

I have doves nesting in a hanging planter at my front door also. This is the third year in a row now, and I still get so much joy watching them.

I've noticed that the male and female beaks are different from one another. I say good morning every day in a soft voice.

They amaze me as how much trust they have in people. I was once informed that birds will never choose a doomed house. I have many bird houses and feeders around my home.

I hope they will always feel welcomed and give me and my family many memories.

Mar 22, 2008

eggs in nest
by: Loli

Love the photo...our doves laid their eggs atop our patio ceiling fan, so we can't really get up there to look...don't want to spook them. So, we will look vicariously through your photo..smile.

Mar 22, 2008

Answer to your question.
by: Aaron

I have watered my plants twice since I found the nest.

The first time the bird didn't even move, but the second time the bird flew off but returned shortly there after.

The second time was when I noticed the eggs had hatched. The two baby birds did not move at all. Then a few days later the little baby birds were moving all around.

If it appears that the parental bird is high on its nest it is because the eggs have hatched. I was concerned when the bird left after that second watering.

The bird was more busy chasing a mocking bird who was near the nest. If you water your plants I think you need to do it in a natural way.

I would spray a light mist over them from a good distance. That is what I plan to do the next time I water that particular plant.

Mar 22, 2008

morning dove nest
by: Joyce Buchholz

How long does it take for the eggs to hatch? Do they stay around if I water the plant that they are in?
Thank You

Mar 16, 2008

thanks for the comments
by: Aaron Vick

I sit there and watch them. They will turn one eye at us and they know we are watching. They trust us but not so much where they don't keep an eye on us.

I am sort of getting worried that they may not hatch. It has been a long time since I discovered them. Almost 2.5 weeks maybe longer.

I hope they are still OK. I will keep you posted.

Mar 15, 2008

Doves in Hanging Plants
by: Anonymous

We used to have Mourning Doves that nested in our hanging plant at our old house. The plant was right in my front door, and when they sang in the mourning, it would wake me up.

The male would sit right in the telephone pole by the house, and when the female left the male would come down and watch the eggs!

Mourning Dove Lover!

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