Doves are widespread birds, found in urban, suburban, and natural settings across many parts of the world. Known for their gentle cooing and calm demeanor, they project a peaceful image.
Typical Nest Stay
The duration doves spend in the nest, known as the nestling period, is relatively short, typically 11 to 17 days, averaging around 15 days for species like the Mourning Dove. Eurasian Collared-Doves have a similar period, usually 15 to 20 days. This rapid development allows them to fledge quickly.
Several factors influence how long young doves remain in their nest. The specific species of dove plays a role, with slight variations between, for example, Mourning Doves and Eurasian Collared-Doves. Environmental conditions, such as weather and food availability, also affect the nestling period. Additionally, whether it is a first or subsequent brood within a breeding season can have a minor impact.
Growth and Care in the Nest
During their time in the nest, young doves, called squabs or nestlings, undergo rapid growth. Upon hatching, they are helpless, with closed eyes and sparse downy feathers, completely reliant on parents for warmth and sustenance. Their eyes open around day three, and by day four, their skin begins to darken.
Both parent doves actively participate in caring for their young. They feed nestlings a unique, nutrient-rich “crop milk,” secreted from the lining of their crops. This specialized milk, high in protein and fat, supports the squabs’ rapid growth during their first few days. After about five days, parents gradually introduce partially digested seeds, transitioning the young doves to a more solid food source. As they grow, feathers develop, and by about seven days old, they appear largely feathered, beginning to stretch their wings and practice exercises for flight.
Life After Leaving the Nest
Even after leaving the nest, around 12 to 15 days old, young doves are not fully independent. This initial departure, known as fledging, involves them hopping or fluttering clumsily to nearby branches or the ground. They continue to rely on their parents for food and guidance for another one to two weeks.
During this post-fledging period, parents continue to feed their young, teaching them skills such as foraging and recognizing dangers. Fledglings may return to the nest or stay nearby to rest and be fed. The transition to complete independence is gradual, with young doves gaining stronger flight capabilities and becoming self-sufficient in finding their own food by about 35 days after hatching.