Doves are a common sight in many environments, often observed nesting in various locations. These adaptable birds construct relatively simple nests, typically comprising loosely assembled twigs, pine needles, and grass stems, often placed in trees, shrubs, or even on human-made structures like ledges and eaves. Understanding the duration and process of their egg development offers insight into their reproductive habits.
The Incubation Period
Dove eggs undergo an incubation period of approximately 14 days. This duration begins once the female has laid her full clutch, usually two pure white eggs, laid a day or two apart. Both the male and female doves share the responsibility of incubating the eggs, ensuring continuous warmth. The male often takes the daytime shift, diligently sitting on the eggs from morning until late afternoon. The female then assumes the role for the night, providing consistent incubation through the cooler hours. This cooperative effort is crucial for consistent temperature, and the nest is rarely left unattended.
Signs of Impending Hatching
As the incubation period nears its end, specific cues indicate hatching is imminent. One primary sign is “pipping,” where the developing chick begins to break through the inner membrane and then the outer shell of the egg using a small projection on its beak called an egg tooth. This initial break allows the chick to access the air sac within the egg and take its first breaths. The process of pipping can take several hours, during which the chick may rest before continuing to chip away at the shell. Parent doves remain attentive, ensuring the eggs are undisturbed and maintained at the proper temperature until the squabs emerge.
Factors Influencing Successful Hatching
Several factors impact the successful hatching of dove eggs:
Environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, play a role. Developing embryos require a consistent temperature, ideally around 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit (37.5 degrees Celsius), and humidity levels between 40-50% during incubation, increasing to 65-75% as hatching approaches.
Deviations from these conditions, such as cold spells or excessive dryness, can hinder development or cause the chick to become stuck within the shell.
Nest disturbance from predators or human interference can lead to parents abandoning the nest, leaving the eggs vulnerable.
The health and fertility of the parent doves are important, as unfertilized eggs or those laid by unhealthy birds will not hatch.
Physical damage to the egg, such as cracks or poor shell formation, prevents successful hatching.