Mourning doves are a common sight in many backyards, known for their gentle cooing and graceful presence. As these birds frequent human-inhabited areas, encounters with their droppings are inevitable. Understanding the distinct characteristics of mourning dove droppings can help in their identification and management.
Identifying Features of Mourning Dove Droppings
A typical mourning dove dropping features a dark, solid component, which can range from dark brown to green, alongside a distinct chalky white portion. This white cap is composed of urates, the bird’s equivalent of urine, which is primarily uric acid, a byproduct of protein metabolism that allows birds to conserve water. The darker part reflects their diet, primarily consisting of seeds and grains. The consistency of these droppings is generally semi-liquid to pasty, often appearing as a small, oval-shaped mass with the white urate “dollop” on top. Each individual dropping is typically small, approximately 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) in diameter. While doves are primarily granivores, consuming seeds and grains, their digestive system efficiently processes these, meaning large, undigested seed fragments are uncommon in their waste.
Distinguishing Mourning Dove Droppings from Other Birds
Pigeon droppings, for instance, are often larger and tend to be more uniformly dark or grey, with a more solid consistency. Pigeons themselves are larger and stockier birds compared to the slender mourning dove. Sparrow or finch droppings, while similar in size, might contain more visible seed husks and often lack the prominent white urate cap characteristic of doves. Waterfowl droppings, due to their diet and higher water intake, are considerably larger, more liquid, and frequently green or dark in color. The unique combination of a mourning dove’s small, oval-shaped dropping, its semi-liquid to pasty texture, and the distinctive white uric acid cap serves as a reliable identifier.
Managing Mourning Dove Droppings
For dried droppings, wetting the area with warm water or a disinfectant spray helps soften the material, making it easier to clean. A stiff brush or scraper can then be used to remove the softened waste. For larger accumulations, hosing down the affected surface can be an effective approach.
Maintaining proper hygiene during cleanup is important. Wearing gloves and a mask is advisable, especially when dealing with larger quantities, to prevent inhaling airborne particles. Although the risk is generally low for small amounts, bird droppings can contain bacteria and fungi that may pose health concerns. To deter doves from problem areas, consider removing accessible food sources like spilled birdseed. Physical barriers such as bird spikes or netting, or visual deterrents like reflective objects, can also discourage them from roosting.