Nesting platform for doves and robins

I just visited you're site ... I have a couple of morning doves spending alot of time in backyard along with several species of sparrows. I have provided bird feeders, water and bird bath. Is there something I can set up to allow the doves to build their nests, quite a few of the neighbors in our area seem to trim their palms and trees this time of the year - I am in the process of getting the city involved to prevent this. I live in Southern California and would like to know what more I can do to provide "all" birds a place to hang safely. Thanks.

Birds learn through trial and error about how and where to build nests. If their particular nest site is destroyed, they will move on to a new location after about 10 days.

Doves are known for poor nest construction and inappropriate nesting sites. Their nest is usually a fragile, shallow platform of twigs on the branch of a shrub, tree or even sometimes on the ground. Wild Birds Unlimited does have nesting shelves or platforms that can be installed on trees and the sides of houses to help Doves and Robins with nesting.

Once she lays her eggs, the dove pair rarely leaves the nest unattended. The male usually incubates from mid-morning until late afternoon, and the female sits the rest of the day and night.

Doves, like a lot of birds, rely on camouflage to protect them from predators’ attacks. Sometimes they remain still until danger passes or they may leave the nest as danger approaches, to lure the predator away.

Fortunately, Mourning Doves can be found throughout most of North America and are considered among the top ten most abundant birds in the United States. Certain doves may breed several times in a breeding season, from February to October.

The average longevity for a typical adult is only about 1.5 years and the mortality rate of juveniles can be as high as 70% in their first year of life. But they can also be the longest lived bird found in North America. Bird banding research recorded one Mourning Dove more than 31 years old.

Good Luck, Sarah

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