[cheryl colgrove]

I found a dove in my back yard and the mother and father were watching it and I noticed the Left wing was dragging but yet the little one was walking around fine looking for mom and dad after they flew away when I came around.I didn't want to pick up the bird and get my smell on it so I left it alone after I put food and water on the ground. It found a safe area under the lilac bush-its dark out so I hope its safe. The yard is surrounded by a brick wall so no other predators will get it. Should I take the bird in or let it be and hope the parents come after it? I feel sorry for it-and it did try to fly but could not get any height.

 

[Charis]

Yes...do bring the dove inside. Outside, it's an easy target for a night time predator.
Besides, if the wings is injured the bird needs to go to a rehabber orwildlife veterinarian.
The thing about getting your smell on it, is a myth told to children, to get them to leave baby birds alone.

 

[Charis]

Here's a link with some resources, for wildlife, in New Mexico.

http://apnm.org/publications/general_articles/WildlifeRehabilitation.php