Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 9/16/2007

Question
I have 5 doves or pigeons dont really know whats the difference well they have 2 babys but they are trying to kill one by hurting it and not feeding it
they are about 2 weeks old and now the one is starving
i dont know what to do i've tried giving it pronutro but I dont know if it is safe what else can i do??

Answer
Hi, Doret,

I'm sorry for responding late to your question(s).  I was hospitalized and trying to catch up.

Doves and pigeons are very closely related.  Pigeons are usually larger than doves, doves are generally the same color of grey, whereas pigeons can come in different variations/colors.  If you could send a photo, I could tell the difference.

It may not be the parent bird that is trying to hurt their baby...it could be another bird.  If the parents, in fact, are trying to hurt their baby and not feeding it, it usually means something is wrong with the baby.  You might be able to help this baby out by handfeeding it baby parrot handfeeding formula with a handfeeding syringe.  I use Kaytee Exact handfeeding formula, but there are other brands on the market.  I don't know what pronutro is so I can't comment on it.  You can also use liquid nutritional supplements to handfeed this baby, such as Ensure Plus or Slim Fast.  This would only be a temporary food until you can get the parrot handfeeding formula.  Food must be handfed to the baby at 102-105 degrees F to prevent crop problems.  Visit my website for more information on handfeeding parrots....same applies to baby pigeons/doves.

www.angelfire.com/falcon/birdinfo/index.html

Chrys