As spring approaches, Mourning Doves are often the first non-raptor birds observed engaging in nest-building activities in Eliza Howell Park. My regular checks on one particular nest, initiated on March 21st, have continued through a period of cold weather, including a significant snowfall. Despite the challenging conditions, the nest has been continuously attended by both the male and female, who share the crucial duty of keeping the eggs warm. The typical 14-day incubation period may soon be coming to an end, raising anticipation for the hatching of the eggs.
Mourning Doves are a common sight year-round in the park, with several pairs nesting annually. Their nesting behaviors, however, are quite remarkable and set them apart from many other species. Their breeding season often commences early, with their characteristic “cooing” heard by the end of February. Nesting activities frequently begin in March, significantly earlier than many other migratory birds return to Eliza Howell Park.
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The construction of a Mourning Dove’s nest is notably swift. They meticulously assemble a rather flimsy structure of twigs and grass, often lacking a deep inner cup, in a mere 2-3 days. This contrasts sharply with the approximately one week that many other bird species require for nest building. The process is a fascinating display of cooperation: the female remains on the chosen nesting site while the male brings her each piece of nesting material. He then steps onto her back to present the twig, which she carefully tucks into place as he immediately retrieves the next piece. This efficient construction method allows them to establish a home quickly.
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Typically, Mourning Doves lay only two eggs per brood, a smaller clutch size compared to most songbirds. Despite this, they are highly successful in maintaining their populations, often raising two or more broods each year. This reproductive strategy is closely linked to their unique method of feeding their young.
While many songbird species rely on insects to feed their hatchlings, Mourning Doves, belonging to the pigeon family, possess the extraordinary ability to produce “crop milk,” also known as “pigeon milk.” This semi-solid substance, often described as cottage cheese-like, is exceptionally rich in protein and fat. In the initial days after hatching, young doves are unable to digest the regular seed diet of their parents. Both the male and female Mourning Dove produce this vital milk, ensuring their two offspring receive adequate nutrition.
The capacity to produce pigeon milk is a key factor enabling their early nesting behavior. Unlike other birds that must wait for an increase in insect availability, Mourning Doves can initiate nesting without this dependency.
Observing the exact moment of hatching can be challenging for those monitoring the nests. The parents do not make frequent trips away from the nest to gather insect food. Instead, they remain with the chicks, providing warmth and feeding them milk, minimizing their need to leave the nest.
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With a bit of luck and precise timing of visits, it may be possible to observe the young doves several days after hatching. By this time, they will have grown sufficiently, and the parents will be transitioning their feeding strategy from milk to seeds. This transition marks a critical developmental stage for the young birds as they prepare for independence.
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The ability of Mourning Doves to sustain their young with pigeon milk is a fascinating adaptation that allows them to thrive early in the nesting season. Their efficient nest construction and unique feeding method highlight the diverse and remarkable strategies employed by birds in the wild.
