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Birding/Baby Doves
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Question
I have a Morning Dove who made a nest in my rain gutter. She sat on the nest for a several weeks but I didn't see any babies until yesterday. For the first time I had a chance to look into the nest with out the mom from an upstairs window, and saw 2 babies already a little more than half the size of an adult with all the feathers in. I watch the rest of yesterday and today and the mom has not been back and the 2 babies are still there. Will they be OK or is there something I should do? How long after the mom leaves should the babies leave?
If the babies are as large as you say, then they are old enough to fledge and fend for themselves. Doves will usually fledge around 2 weeks and then the parents will stay nearby to help them feed for an additional 2 weeks.
Everything sounds a-okay.
Julia
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Answers by Expert:
Julia Booth
Expertise
I can answer questions about bird identification (by sight or sound), behavior, distribution, population, conservation, mating, nesting, fledging and feeding. I do have some practical knowledge about foreign species, but identification skills are limited in that arena. Bear in mind that as much as I know, it's possible that at least some of you will ask a question that I am unable to answer. At which point I would direct you to wherever or whomever I thought could provide you with that information.
Experience
I have 15 years birding experience in Southern California.
Organizations
Audubon Society
Education/Credentials
My education is in art and photography -but I have a substantial portfolio of nature related work.
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