Where Do Mourning Doves Nest – A Complete Guide

Mourning doves nest in various locations, primarily trees and shrubs, especially coniferous ones, as well as building ledges, gutters, and window sills. Occasionally, they nest on the ground, particularly in areas with sparse vegetation. 

They adapt well to urban and rural environments, often choosing sites that offer protection from predators and are near food sources. Their nests are simple structures made of twigs, pine needles, and grass.

Where Do Mourning Doves Nest?

Mourning doves, with their soft coos and graceful flights, are familiar sights in backyards across North America. These gentle birds, known for their distinctive calls and peaceful nature, have some fascinating nesting habits that are worth exploring.

Nesting Locations Of Mourning Doves : 

Common Nesting Spots

Mourning doves are adaptable when it comes to choosing nesting sites. While they have preferences, they’re not afraid to get creative if the perfect spot presents itself. Let’s explore some of their favorite nesting locations:

1. Trees and Shrubs: The classic choice for mourning doves. They particularly favor coniferous trees and dense hedges that offer good cover.
2. Building Ledges and Gutters: In urban and suburban areas, doves often make use of human structures. Window sills, roof edges, and even air conditioning units can become prime real estate for a dove nest.
3. Unusual Nesting Sites: Mourning doves have been known to nest in some surprising places. Flower pots, old machinery, and even abandoned shoes have all been reported as dove nesting spots!

Ground Nesting: Myth vs. Reality

There’s a common belief that mourning doves frequently nest on the ground. While it’s true that they can nest on the ground, especially in arid regions with sparse vegetation, it’s not their preferred choice. Ground nesting is more common in areas where elevated sites are scarce or when other nesting spots are already occupied.

Did You Know? Ground nests are typically hidden in grasses or ground cover, providing some protection from predators.

Factors Influencing Nest Site Selection

Several factors come into play when a pair of mourning doves chooses their nesting site:

• Safety: Protection from predators is a top priority. Sites that offer cover from aerial predators are particularly favored.
• Availability of Food: Proximity to food sources, such as bird feeders or natural seed sources, can influence nest location.
• Human Activity: While mourning doves are relatively tolerant of humans, they prefer quieter areas for nesting.
• Previous Success: Doves may return to sites where they’ve successfully raised broods before.

The Mourning Doves Art of Nest Building : 

Nest Architecture and Materials

Mourning dove nests are not known for their architectural complexity. In fact, they’re often described as flimsy or haphazard. However, this simplicity serves a purpose – it allows for quick construction and easy relocation if needed.

Typical Mourning Dove Nest Composition:

Material	Purpose
Twigs	Main structural component
Pine needles	Additional structure and lining
Grass	Soft lining for eggs
Leaves	Extra padding
Feathers	Occasional use for additional softness

Male and Female Roles in Construction

Nest building is a team effort for mourning doves, with both male and female birds contributing:

• The male typically gathers and brings nesting materials to the site.
• The female arranges the materials and shapes the nest.

This collaborative effort usually takes 2-4 days to complete.

Nest Size and Structural Integrity

Mourning dove nests are relatively small, measuring about 8 inches across. Despite their seemingly fragile appearance, these nests are surprisingly sturdy. The interwoven twigs create a flexible structure that can withstand wind and rain.

I once watched a pair of mourning doves build a nest on my porch light. It was fascinating to see how quickly they worked, and how they managed to balance twigs on such a small surface. Despite looking precarious, that nest survived several stormy nights!”- Sarah, Bird Enthusiast

The Nesting Calendar Of Mourning Doves : 

Breeding Season Timeline

Mourning doves have one of the longest breeding seasons of any North American bird. In warmer regions, they may nest year-round, while in cooler areas, the breeding season typically runs from March to September.

Why Do Mourning Doves Build Nests so Early in Spring?

Mourning doves are known for being early nesters, often starting their breeding season as early as March in many parts of North America. This early start offers several advantages:

1. Multiple Broods: By starting early, doves can raise multiple broods in a single season.
2. Less Competition: Early nesting means less competition for prime nesting sites.
3. Resource Availability: Spring brings an abundance of seeds and other food sources, ideal for feeding growing chicks.

Egg-Laying Patterns

Mourning doves typically lay two eggs per clutch. These eggs are small, measuring about 2.5-3 cm in length, and are a pristine white color.

Interesting Fact: Mourning doves are prolific breeders. A single pair can produce up to six broods in a year under ideal conditions

Incubation Period and Parental Duties

Both parents share incubation duties, with the male typically taking the day shift and the female incubating at night. The incubation period lasts about 14 days.

Incubation Schedule:

Time	Parent on Duty
Morning to Mid-afternoon	Male
Late Afternoon to Morning	Female

Hatching and Nestling Development

When the eggs hatch, the nestlings are altricial – meaning they’re born blind, featherless, and completely dependent on their parents. Here’s a quick timeline of their development:

• Day 1-3: Eyes closed, minimal movement
• Day 4-6: Pin feathers start to appear
• Day 7-9: Eyes open, more alert
• Day 10-12: Feathers start to unfurl
• Day 13-15: Ready to fledge

Fledging Process and Juvenile Care

Mourning dove fledglings leave the nest about two weeks after hatching. However, they don’t venture far and continue to be fed by their parents for another 1-2 weeks.

Case Study: A study in urban Chicago found that mourning dove fledglings had a survival rate of about 45% in their first two weeks out of the nest. Predation by cats and collisions with buildings were the primary causes of mortality.

Mourning Doves Loyalty to Nests : 

Do Mourning Doves Return to Old Nests?

Mourning doves often exhibit nest site fidelity, meaning they return to the same general area to nest year after year. However, they don’t typically reuse the exact same nest.

Factors Affecting Nest Site Fidelity

Several factors influence whether doves return to a previous nesting site:

1. Previous Success: If a pair successfully raised chicks in a location, they’re more likely to return.
2. Predation: If a nest was predated, doves may avoid that area in the future.
3. Habitat Changes: Significant changes to the surrounding environment may deter doves from returning.

Pros and Cons of Nest Reuse

While mourning doves don’t often reuse nests, there are potential benefits and drawbacks to this behavior:

Pros:

• Time and energy savings
• Familiar territory

Cons:

• Increased parasite load
• Higher chance of predator awareness

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Protecting Mourning Dove Nests : 

Legal Considerations (Migratory Bird Treaty Act)

Mourning doves are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which makes it illegal to remove or disturb active nests without proper permits.

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act prohibits the taking, killing, possession, transportation, and importation of migratory birds, their eggs, parts, and nests, except when specifically authorized by the Department of the Interior.” – U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

When and How to Safely Relocate a Nest

Generally, it’s best to leave mourning dove nests alone. However, if a nest must be moved due to safety concerns, it should only be done if:

1. The nest is inactive (no eggs or chicks)
2. You have proper authorization from wildlife authorities

Creating Dove-Friendly Spaces in Your Yard

To attract nesting mourning doves to your yard:

• Plant dense shrubs or conifers
• Provide a reliable water source
• Offer appropriate food (seeds, grains) in ground feeders
• Minimize use of pesticides

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Challenges Faced by Nesting Mourning Doves : 

Predators and Nest Protection Strategies

Mourning dove nests face threats from various predators, including:

• Cats
• Raccoons
• Squirrels
• Hawks

Doves have limited defense mechanisms against predators. Their primary strategy is to choose well-hidden nesting sites and to use distraction displays if a predator approaches.

Weather-Related Risks

Severe weather can pose significant risks to mourning dove nests:

• High winds can blow nests out of trees
• Heavy rain can flood ground nests
• Extreme heat can cause eggs or chicks to overheat

Human Disturbances and Urban Challenges

In urban and suburban areas, mourning doves face additional challenges:

• Window collisions
• Noise pollution, which can interfere with communication
• Light pollution, which can disrupt natural behaviors
• Habitat loss due to development

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A Birdwatcher’s Guide For Observing Nesting Mourning Doves : 

Signs of Nesting Activity

Look for these indicators of mourning dove nesting:

• Pairs of doves consistently in the same area
• Doves carrying nesting materials in their beaks
• Increased cooing activity
• Adults making frequent trips to and from a specific spot

Best Practices for Nest Observation

When observing mourning dove nests:

1. Keep your distance to avoid disturbing the birds
2. Use binoculars for a closer view
3. Limit observation time to prevent stress on the birds
4. Never touch the nest or eggs

Photography Tips Without Disturbing the Birds

For those interested in photographing nesting mourning doves:

• Use a long lens to maintain distance
• Avoid using flash photography
• Limit your time at any one nest
• Be patient and let the birds become accustomed to your presence

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Conclusion: 

Mourning doves offer a glimpse into nature’s beauty with their simple nests and dedicated parenting. By respecting their nesting habits, we can better appreciate their role in our environment and aid in their conservation. 

These birds remind us of the value of coexisting with urban wildlife, enriching our lives and ecosystems. So, the next time you hear their cooing or spot them nesting, take a moment to marvel at the small wonders of nature unfolding around you.