Expert: Julia Booth - 7/11/2008

Question
I had a surprise dove fly out of a hanging plant when I went to water it. I noticed one was back the following day. I did a little research and realized there was a nest. The problem was if I didn't water the plant I feared their leafy protection would die. I tried tonight to water very gently. Sadly, the sun had gone down, the male dove flew up, hit its head on the porch and flew off. That was three hours ago. I brought the hanging plant inside because it's going down to the 60's tonight. I can't believe there are 2 eggs inside. I put soft fuzzy slipper socks around them. I will hang the plant back up outside with the first light. I feel TERRIBLE. I can't believe the male didn't come back but it's probably hurt too. I know you're thinknig what an idiot. If only I had left well enough alone. Do you think the female will return? If so I'm not going to touch the plant again.

Y

Answer
They're actually more likely to return if the plant was in its original place. Now that you've moved it, I'm not sure what they will do. Doves are sketchy and easily startled. You're not the first person to accidentally water a dove's nest. Believe me. The male is probably fine. Just stunned. Put the plant back and let nature takes it's course.

Julia