Expert: Roger Lederer - 4/8/2011

Question
QUESTION: Hi. I have rescued a small gray dove from a cat that had caught it. It has no visible injuries but it does seem to be missing some tail feathers and a couple of the ones that are left are bent. I am keeping it until it grows back its feathers, but I would like to know how long that normally takes and what you would suggest I feed it. I have been feeding it scratch but am not sure if that is sufficient. Thank you!

ANSWER: The best thing to do is to release the bird. I know you mean well and I appreciate it, but one, it is illegal to keep a wild bird and two, the longer you keep it the less likely it will make it in the wild. It will do just fine. Thanks for your concern.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I know you are correct and I am not trying to domesticate the bird, but I had to chase two cats and a dog away from it while it was trying to escape. It really did seem to have trouble flying and couldn't get off the ground, though the wings do seem to be intact. That is why I felt the missing feathers might be a problem. If you really think the bird should be released I will do it, but there are some feral cats in my neighborhood and I am afraid to. If it can't fly, do you really think it will be ok? I know I am not an expert, but I am worried for the little guy.

Answer
Well,  doves feed on the ground so it shouldn't have trouble finding food. If you can release it in the woods away from dogs and cats, it should be fine. It may have trouble getting off the ground but that's because it's not used to having no tail. It will be able to fly short distances at least, without a tail. The big problem is keeping the bird in captivity. Even if it does live, it will become used to humans and being provided food and then when you do release it in a few weeks it may not be able to fend for itself. I have observed "rescued" birds meet their demise after being released because they hang around human habitation and either starve or get eaten by a cat or shot by a kid with a bb gun. I can't guarantee the bird will make it in the wild, but that is the best way to treat it. Again, I totally understand your feeling and appreciate your effort, but letting nature take its course is almost always best.