Baby Dove Season - New Members

[Pigeonpal2002]

Hi new members and first timers to the site,

This is just a reminder for all those who come across an "injured" or "sick" dove that this IS baby bird season. Not all babies that one is going to come across is in need of emergency care or warrants "rescuing".

Doves in particular are likely to be found now by well meaning people in residential neighbourhoods that might appear sick or injured but in fact, are just young birds learning to fly. When the doves leave the nest, they will stay close to the ground and hide out in shrubs and low growing foliage for safety and protection. This is natural for them to do so and their parents will continue to care for and feed them. They leave the nest to lessen the dangers of predators finding them and also to develop their flying skills.

Please everyone, do not assume that the dove you find is in need of assistance and should be taken in to feed and nuture. Watch the pigeon/dove from distance to see whether or not a parent bird is visiting the young to feed it. They may be left alone for considerable amounts of time during this weaning stage and so you will have to watch closely and perhaps for a lengthy time. If you do not see a parent bird returning once in awhile to feed the young, then perhaps you can investigate the situation and check the bird for signs of injury or trauma.

Often at this time of year, well meaning people intervene with baby birds unnecesarily and they take them under their "Wing" when they are just fine and learning to become independant