Doves typically lay 1 to 2 eggs per clutch, with both parents sharing the responsibility of incubation and caring for the chicks.
Doves are remarkable birds with unique nesting behaviors that set them apart from other avian species. While most doves lay just 1-2 eggs per clutch, their reproductive strategy allows them to thrive across North America. Let’s explore the fascinating world of dove reproduction and nesting habits.
Dove Egg Laying Patterns
Mourning doves, the most common dove species in North America, typically lay:
- 1-2 eggs per clutch (usually 2)
- Up to 6 clutches per year
- Eggs laid about 1 day apart
This differs significantly from many songbirds that lay 4-6 eggs per clutch but only raise 1-2 broods annually. The dove’s strategy of smaller, more frequent clutches proves equally successful.
Why Only 2 Eggs?
The limited clutch size relates directly to their feeding method. Unlike insect-eating birds, doves produce “crop milk” to feed their young. Both parents generate this nutritious secretion, but even together they can only adequately nourish two hatchlings at a time.
The Dove Nesting Cycle
Doves exhibit several unique nesting behaviors:
| Stage | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Nest Building | 2-3 days | Male brings materials, female constructs flimsy platform |
| Egg Laying | 1-2 days | Typically 2 eggs laid about a day apart |
| Incubation | 14 days | Parents share duties – male by day, female by night |
| Nestling Stage | 12-15 days | Fed crop milk initially, then seeds |
Early Breeders
Doves begin nesting as early as March in northern climates, weeks before most songbirds return from migration. Their ability to feed young without insects allows this early start. As noted by the Eliza Howell Nature Walk, they can nest through cold snaps that would challenge other species.
Dove Nest Characteristics
Dove nests are famously simple:
- Loose platform of twigs and grass
- No inner lining or cup
- Often built in trees, but also on ground or man-made structures
- Sometimes reuse old nests
The flimsy construction works because both parents share incubation duties constantly, protecting eggs from the elements. For bird watchers interested in observing dove nesting behavior, quality binoculars can provide excellent views without disturbing the birds.
Parental Care and Feeding
Dove parenting involves remarkable cooperation:
Crop Milk Production
Both sexes produce this nutritious secretion in their crops. According to Wild Birds Unlimited, if one parent dies in the first week, the remaining adult cannot produce enough milk to sustain both chicks.
Feeding Transition
After about 4 days:
- Parents begin mixing seeds with crop milk
- By 2 weeks, chicks eat mostly seeds
- Young fledge at 12-15 days
Dove Population Success
Despite high mortality rates (50-65% annually), doves thrive due to:
- Multiple broods per season
- Adaptability to human environments
- Efficient feeding strategies
- Wide food source availability
Their ability to nest early and often makes them one of North America’s most successful bird species. For hunters and wildlife photographers alike, understanding dove behavior enhances the experience. Those interested in observing doves at greater distances might consider long-range binoculars designed specifically for bird watching.
Unusual Dove Nesting Situations
Doves sometimes exhibit unexpected nesting behaviors:
Urban Adaptation
They readily nest on building ledges, gutters, and even in hanging flower pots. Their tolerance of human activity makes them common city dwellers.
Winter Nesting
In southern ranges, some doves nest year-round if food remains available. This flexibility contributes to their population success.
Nest Site Fidelity
While not strongly territorial, some pairs return to the same area or even reuse nests across multiple broods in a season.
