Can You Keep a Mourning Dove as a Pet Legally?

Mourning doves are gentle and beautiful birds, and you might be wondering, Can You Keep A Mourning Dove As A Pet? PETS.EDU.VN is here to tell you that owning a mourning dove is generally illegal without proper permits due to federal and state laws protecting native wildlife; however, understanding the nuances of these regulations, proper care considerations, and the ethical implications can help you make informed decisions and explore alternative ways to appreciate these birds. Understanding these protections, coupled with responsible wildlife stewardship and exploring alternative ways to appreciate these birds, ensures both their well-being and adherence to legal guidelines.

1. Understanding the Legal Status of Mourning Doves

Is it legal to keep a mourning dove as a pet? It’s a question many bird enthusiasts ask.

The answer is generally no, due to federal and state laws in the United States designed to protect native wildlife. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) is a primary piece of legislation that makes it illegal to possess, capture, or kill migratory birds, including mourning doves, without a permit.

1.1. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA)

The MBTA, enacted in 1918, protects a vast number of migratory bird species.

1.1.1. Key Provisions of the MBTA

• Prohibition of Unpermitted Actions: The MBTA makes it unlawful to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, or sell migratory birds, their nests, and eggs without a valid permit.
• Scope of Protection: The act covers a wide range of activities that could harm migratory birds, extending beyond direct hunting to include indirect harm from activities like habitat destruction.
• Penalties for Violation: Violations of the MBTA can result in significant fines and potential imprisonment, underscoring the seriousness of the law.

1.1.2. How the MBTA Affects Mourning Doves

Mourning doves, as migratory birds, fall directly under the protection of the MBTA. This means that keeping a mourning dove as a pet is illegal unless you have obtained the necessary permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).

1.2. State Laws and Regulations

In addition to federal laws, state regulations also play a crucial role in the legality of keeping mourning doves.

1.2.1. Variations in State Laws

• Permitting Requirements: Some states may offer permits for rehabilitating injured or orphaned mourning doves, but these permits typically require that the birds be released back into the wild once they are capable of survival.
• Prohibition of Ownership: Many states strictly prohibit the keeping of native wild birds as pets, regardless of their origin or condition.
• Enforcement: State wildlife agencies are responsible for enforcing these laws, and penalties for violations can vary widely.

1.2.2. Examples of State Regulations

• California: The California Department of Fish and Wildlife prohibits the possession of most native birds, including mourning doves, without specific scientific or educational permits.
• New York: New York’s Environmental Conservation Law protects migratory birds and requires permits for any activities that involve disturbing or possessing them.
• Texas: While Texas allows hunting of mourning doves during specific seasons with a valid hunting license, keeping them as pets is generally prohibited.

1.3. Obtaining Permits Legally

While keeping a mourning dove as a pet is generally illegal, there are specific circumstances under which permits may be issued.

1.3.1. Rehabilitation Permits

• Purpose: These permits allow individuals and organizations to care for injured or orphaned wild birds with the intention of releasing them back into their natural habitat.
• Requirements: Applicants typically need to demonstrate knowledge of bird care and rehabilitation techniques and have appropriate facilities to house the birds.
• Conditions: Rehabilitation permits often come with strict conditions, such as mandatory reporting, limitations on the duration of care, and prohibitions on using the birds for commercial purposes.

1.3.2. Educational and Scientific Permits

• Purpose: These permits are issued to researchers, educators, and institutions that use birds for scientific study or educational programs.
• Requirements: Applicants must provide detailed proposals outlining the purpose of their work, the methods they will use, and the measures they will take to ensure the birds’ welfare.
• Conditions: These permits typically require regular monitoring and reporting to ensure compliance with ethical and legal standards.

1.3.3. How to Apply for a Permit

1. Contact the USFWS: Start by contacting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or your state’s wildlife agency to inquire about the specific permits you need and the application process.
2. Gather Documentation: Prepare all necessary documentation, including proof of your qualifications, detailed plans for bird care, and a clear justification for your request.
3. Submit Your Application: Submit your application according to the instructions provided by the issuing agency and be prepared to undergo inspections of your facilities.
4. Comply with Regulations: If your permit is approved, ensure that you comply with all terms and conditions to avoid penalties.

1.4. Consequences of Illegal Possession

Keeping a mourning dove without the necessary permits can result in severe legal consequences.

1.4.1. Fines and Penalties

• Federal Fines: Violations of the MBTA can result in fines of up to $15,000 per violation.
• State Fines: State penalties vary but can also be substantial, often including fines and the confiscation of the bird.
• Imprisonment: In some cases, particularly for repeat offenders or those involved in commercial trade, imprisonment may be a possibility.

1.4.2. Confiscation of the Bird

Wildlife authorities have the right to confiscate any illegally possessed mourning doves. These birds are typically released back into the wild or transferred to licensed rehabilitation facilities.

1.4.3. Impact on Conservation Efforts

Illegal possession of native birds can undermine conservation efforts by disrupting natural populations and potentially introducing diseases.

1.5. Ethical Considerations

Beyond the legal aspects, there are ethical considerations to ponder when thinking about keeping a mourning dove.

1.5.1. Welfare of the Bird

• Natural Behavior: Mourning doves have specific needs for flight, foraging, and social interaction that are difficult to meet in a captive environment.
• Stress and Confinement: Confinement can cause significant stress and behavioral problems for these birds, affecting their overall well-being.
• Expert Care: Providing appropriate care for a mourning dove requires specialized knowledge and resources, which many pet owners may lack.

1.5.2. Conservation Ethics

• Removing Birds from the Wild: Taking a mourning dove from its natural habitat can disrupt local populations and reduce genetic diversity.
• Supporting Illegal Trade: Keeping illegally obtained birds as pets can inadvertently support the illegal wildlife trade, which threatens many species.
• Promoting Respect for Wildlife: Ethical wildlife stewardship involves respecting the natural behaviors and habitats of wild animals and avoiding actions that could harm them.

1.5.3. Alternative Ways to Appreciate Mourning Doves

Instead of keeping a mourning dove as a pet, consider these ethical and enjoyable alternatives:

• Birdwatching: Observe mourning doves in their natural habitat through birdwatching, which allows you to appreciate their beauty without causing harm.
• Creating a Bird-Friendly Habitat: Plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers in your yard to provide food and shelter for mourning doves and other birds.
• Supporting Conservation Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that work to protect bird habitats and promote responsible wildlife management.
• Photography: Capture the beauty of mourning doves through photography, allowing you to share your appreciation with others while respecting their space.

By understanding the legal and ethical implications of keeping mourning doves, you can make informed decisions that promote both their well-being and the conservation of native wildlife. For more information on responsible wildlife stewardship, visit PETS.EDU.VN.

Mourning dove perched on a branch, looking alert.

2. Mourning Dove Care: What It Entails

What does caring for a mourning dove involve? Although it’s generally illegal, understanding the care requirements highlights why these birds are best left in the wild.

2.1. Habitat Requirements

Mourning doves need specific living conditions that are difficult to replicate in a domestic setting.

2.1.1. Space and Enclosure

• Flight Space: Mourning doves require ample space to fly. A cage or enclosure should be large enough to allow for short flights without the bird hitting the sides. A minimum size would be 8 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 6 feet high.
• Secure Enclosure: The enclosure must be secure to protect the dove from predators and prevent escape. Use strong wire mesh with small openings.
• Indoor vs. Outdoor: Outdoor enclosures are preferable as they provide natural sunlight and fresh air. However, ensure the enclosure is protected from extreme weather conditions. Indoor enclosures require artificial lighting, including UVB and UVA lights.

2.1.2. Environmental Conditions

• Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). Avoid sudden temperature changes.
• Humidity: Keep humidity levels between 40% and 60%. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed.
• Lighting: Provide 12-14 hours of light per day. Use full-spectrum lighting to mimic natural sunlight, especially for indoor enclosures.
• Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation to prevent the buildup of ammonia and other harmful gases.

2.1.3. Substrate and Bedding

• Natural Substrate: Use natural substrates like sand, soil, or leaf litter to mimic the dove’s natural environment. Avoid using cedar shavings, as they can be toxic to birds.
• Easy to Clean: The substrate should be easy to clean and replace regularly to prevent bacterial growth.
• Dust-Free: Ensure the substrate is dust-free to prevent respiratory issues.

2.2. Nutritional Needs

A balanced diet is essential for the health and well-being of mourning doves.

2.2.1. Diet Composition

• Seed Mix: Provide a high-quality seed mix specifically formulated for doves and pigeons. This should include a variety of small seeds like millet, canary seed, and sunflower seeds.
• Grit: Offer grit to aid in digestion. Grit helps the bird grind seeds in its gizzard.
• Fresh Greens: Supplement the diet with fresh greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Offer small amounts of fruits and vegetables like berries, chopped apples, and carrots.
• Protein: During breeding season or when molting, supplement with protein sources like cooked eggs or mealworms.

2.2.2. Feeding Schedule

• Daily Feeding: Provide fresh food and water daily.
• Portion Control: Offer about 1-2 tablespoons of seed mix per bird per day, adjusting based on the bird’s activity level and weight.
• Multiple Feeders: Use multiple feeding stations to prevent competition and ensure all birds have access to food.

2.2.3. Water Requirements

• Fresh Water: Provide fresh, clean water at all times.
• Water Bowls: Use shallow water bowls that are easy for the doves to access and clean.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean water bowls daily to prevent bacterial growth.

2.3. Social and Behavioral Needs

Mourning doves are social birds and have specific behavioral needs that must be met.

2.3.1. Social Interaction

• Companionship: Mourning doves are typically found in pairs or small groups. Keeping them alone can lead to stress and loneliness.
• Multiple Birds: Ideally, keep at least two doves together. Ensure the enclosure is large enough to accommodate multiple birds comfortably.
• Introducing New Birds: When introducing new birds, do so gradually to allow them to adjust to each other’s presence and minimize aggression.

2.3.2. Enrichment Activities

• Dust Baths: Provide a shallow dish filled with fine sand or dust for the doves to take dust baths. This helps them maintain their feathers.
• Perches: Offer a variety of perches made from different materials and placed at different heights.
• Toys: Provide bird-safe toys like small bells, mirrors, and wooden blocks to keep them mentally stimulated.
• Foraging Opportunities: Scatter seeds around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behaviors.

2.3.3. Vocalization and Communication

• Coos and Calls: Mourning doves communicate through a variety of coos and calls. Be aware of these vocalizations and what they might indicate.
• Quiet Environment: While doves are not overly noisy, they do require a relatively quiet environment to minimize stress.

2.4. Health and Veterinary Care

Regular health checks and veterinary care are crucial for maintaining the well-being of mourning doves.

2.4.1. Common Health Issues

• Parasites: Doves are susceptible to internal and external parasites like mites, lice, and worms. Regular deworming and parasite control are essential.
• Respiratory Infections: Respiratory infections are common in birds, especially in poorly ventilated environments. Watch for signs like sneezing, coughing, and discharge from the eyes or nostrils.
• Canker: Canker is a parasitic disease that affects the throat and digestive system. It can cause difficulty swallowing and weight loss.
• Poxvirus: Avian poxvirus causes lesions on the skin and can be fatal. Vaccination may be available.
• Salmonellosis: Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, weight loss, and death.

2.4.2. Preventative Care

• Regular Check-Ups: Take your dove to an avian veterinarian for regular check-ups, ideally every 6-12 months.
• Quarantine New Birds: Quarantine new birds for at least 30 days before introducing them to your existing flock to prevent the spread of disease.
• Vaccinations: Discuss with your veterinarian whether vaccinations are appropriate for your dove, especially if you live in an area where certain diseases are prevalent.
• Hygiene: Maintain a clean environment to prevent the spread of disease. Clean and disinfect the enclosure regularly.

2.4.3. Signs of Illness

• Changes in Behavior: Watch for changes in behavior like decreased activity, loss of appetite, or isolation from the flock.
• Feather Problems: Look for signs of feather plucking, ruffled feathers, or abnormal molting.
• Discharge: Check for discharge from the eyes, nostrils, or mouth.
• Breathing Difficulties: Watch for signs of labored breathing, tail bobbing, or open-mouth breathing.
• Abnormal Droppings: Monitor the droppings for changes in color, consistency, or frequency.

2.5. Breeding and Nesting

If you plan to breed mourning doves, you need to provide appropriate nesting conditions.

2.5.1. Providing Nesting Sites

• Nesting Platforms: Provide nesting platforms or shallow baskets lined with soft materials like straw, hay, or shredded paper.
• Quiet Location: Place the nesting site in a quiet, secluded area of the enclosure.
• Multiple Sites: Offer multiple nesting sites to allow the doves to choose their preferred location.

2.5.2. Breeding Season

• Timing: Mourning doves typically breed in the spring and summer months.
• Courtship Behavior: Watch for courtship behaviors like cooing, bowing, and preening.
• Increased Protein: During breeding season, increase the protein content of the diet to support egg production.

2.5.3. Egg Laying and Incubation

• Egg Laying: Mourning doves typically lay two eggs per clutch.
• Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs for about 14-15 days.
• Quiet Environment: Provide a quiet, stress-free environment during incubation to prevent the parents from abandoning the nest.

2.5.4. Chick Care

• Parental Care: The parents will feed the chicks crop milk, a nutritious substance produced in their crops.
• Supplemental Feeding: If the parents are not feeding the chicks adequately, you may need to supplement with hand-feeding formulas.
• Weaning: The chicks will begin to fledge around 11-15 days and will be fully weaned by 3-4 weeks.

2.6. Handling and Training

Mourning doves are not typically handled or trained like parrots or other pet birds.

2.6.1. Minimizing Handling

• Stressful: Handling can be stressful for doves, so it should be minimized.
• Necessary Handling: Only handle the birds when necessary for health checks or medical treatment.

2.6.2. Gentle Approach

• Calm Movements: When handling a dove, use slow, calm movements to avoid startling it.
• Secure Grip: Hold the bird gently but firmly to prevent it from escaping and injuring itself.

2.6.3. Training Potential

• Limited Training: Doves are not typically trained to perform tricks or behaviors.
• Positive Reinforcement: You can use positive reinforcement techniques like offering treats to encourage desired behaviors like entering a carrier.

2.7. Long-Term Commitment

Caring for mourning doves is a long-term commitment that requires significant time, resources, and dedication.

2.7.1. Lifespan

• Average Lifespan: Mourning doves can live for 5-10 years in captivity, depending on the quality of care they receive.

2.7.2. Financial Costs

• Initial Costs: Initial costs include the purchase of the enclosure, food bowls, water bowls, perches, and other supplies.
• Ongoing Costs: Ongoing costs include food, substrate, veterinary care, and replacement of supplies.

2.7.3. Time Commitment

• Daily Care: Daily care includes feeding, watering, cleaning the enclosure, and providing enrichment.
• Weekly Care: Weekly care includes thorough cleaning of the enclosure and replacing the substrate.
• Annual Care: Annual care includes veterinary check-ups and preventative treatments.

While understanding these care requirements is important, remember that keeping a mourning dove as a pet is generally illegal and unethical. Instead, focus on appreciating these birds in their natural habitat. For more information on ethical wildlife interactions, visit PETS.EDU.VN.

3. Potential Health Risks of Keeping Mourning Doves

What are the health risks associated with keeping mourning doves? Keeping these birds can pose health risks to both the birds and humans.

3.1. Zoonotic Diseases

Zoonotic diseases are illnesses that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

3.1.1. Common Zoonotic Diseases from Birds

• Salmonellosis:

  • Transmission: Transmitted through contact with contaminated droppings, saliva, or feathers.
  • Symptoms in Humans: Diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps.
  • Prevention: Wash hands thoroughly after handling birds or cleaning their enclosures.

• Chlamydiosis (Psittacosis or Parrot Fever):

  • Transmission: Transmitted through inhalation of dried droppings, secretions, or feather dust.
  • Symptoms in Humans: Flu-like symptoms, pneumonia, headache.
  • Prevention: Maintain a clean environment and wear a mask when cleaning enclosures.

• Avian Influenza (Bird Flu):

  • Transmission: Transmitted through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces.
  • Symptoms in Humans: Fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches.
  • Prevention: Avoid contact with wild birds and practice good hygiene.

• West Nile Virus:

  • Transmission: Transmitted through mosquito bites after the mosquito has fed on an infected bird.
  • Symptoms in Humans: Fever, headache, fatigue, muscle weakness.
  • Prevention: Control mosquito populations and avoid mosquito bites.

• Cryptococcosis:

  • Transmission: Transmitted through inhalation of fungal spores found in bird droppings.
  • Symptoms in Humans: Lung infection, meningitis, skin lesions.
  • Prevention: Avoid disturbing areas with heavy bird droppings and wear a mask when cleaning.

3.1.2. Risk Factors for Zoonotic Diseases

• Compromised Immune Systems: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses, are at higher risk.
• Poor Hygiene: Lack of proper hygiene practices, such as not washing hands after handling birds or cleaning their enclosures, increases the risk of transmission.
• Close Contact: Close contact with birds, especially sick birds, increases the risk of exposure to pathogens.
• Unclean Environments: Unclean living environments for the birds can harbor bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can be transmitted to humans.

3.1.3. Prevention Strategies

• Hygiene Practices:

  • Handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling birds, their droppings, or their enclosures.
  • Protective Gear: Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning enclosures to avoid direct contact with droppings and dust.
  • Disinfection: Regularly disinfect enclosures and equipment with bird-safe disinfectants.

• Maintaining Bird Health:

  • Veterinary Care: Provide regular veterinary care for your birds to ensure they are healthy and free from disease.
  • Quarantine: Quarantine new birds before introducing them to your existing flock to prevent the spread of disease.
  • Healthy Diet: Feed your birds a balanced diet to boost their immune systems.

• Environmental Control:

  • Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in bird enclosures to reduce the buildup of dust and pathogens.
  • Cleaning: Regularly clean and disinfect bird enclosures to remove droppings and other contaminants.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Avoid overcrowding in bird enclosures to reduce stress and the spread of disease.

3.2. Health Risks to the Birds

Keeping mourning doves in captivity can expose them to various health risks.

3.2.1. Common Diseases in Captive Birds

• Psittacosis (Chlamydiosis):

  • Symptoms: Respiratory distress, lethargy, diarrhea, weight loss.
  • Prevention: Maintain a clean environment and quarantine new birds.
  • Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian.

• Aspergillosis:

  • Symptoms: Respiratory distress, lethargy, loss of appetite.
  • Prevention: Ensure good ventilation and avoid moldy food or bedding.
  • Treatment: Antifungal medications.

• Candidiasis (Yeast Infection):

  • Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, crop stasis.
  • Prevention: Maintain a clean environment and avoid overuse of antibiotics.
  • Treatment: Antifungal medications.

• Parasitic Infections:

  • Symptoms: Weight loss, diarrhea, feather plucking.
  • Prevention: Regular deworming and parasite control.
  • Treatment: Antiparasitic medications.

• Feather Plucking:

  • Symptoms: Excessive feather plucking, bald spots.
  • Prevention: Provide enrichment and reduce stress.
  • Treatment: Address underlying causes, such as boredom or stress.

3.2.2. Stress-Related Illnesses

• Causes of Stress:

  • Confinement: Limited space and inability to fly freely.
  • Lack of Social Interaction: Loneliness and isolation.
  • Inadequate Diet: Nutritional deficiencies.
  • Poor Environment: Unclean or unsuitable living conditions.

• Health Consequences:

  • Weakened Immune System: Increased susceptibility to infections.
  • Behavioral Problems: Feather plucking, aggression, self-mutilation.
  • Reproductive Issues: Infertility, egg binding.

3.2.3. Nutritional Deficiencies

• Common Deficiencies:

  • Vitamin A Deficiency: Causes respiratory problems, poor feather quality, and susceptibility to infections.
  • Calcium Deficiency: Causes bone problems, egg binding, and seizures.
  • Vitamin D Deficiency: Causes bone problems and poor feather quality.

• Prevention:

  • Balanced Diet: Provide a varied diet that includes seeds, fruits, vegetables, and supplements.
  • Sunlight: Provide access to natural sunlight or full-spectrum lighting.
  • Supplements: Use vitamin and mineral supplements as recommended by a veterinarian.

3.3. Legal and Ethical Risks

Beyond the health risks, keeping mourning doves can also pose legal and ethical challenges.

3.3.1. Legal Consequences

• Violating the Migratory Bird Treaty Act:

  • Fines: Up to $15,000 per violation.
  • Imprisonment: Possible imprisonment for severe or repeated violations.
  • Confiscation: Confiscation of the bird.

3.3.2. Ethical Considerations

• Welfare of the Bird:

  • Natural Behavior: Inability to engage in natural behaviors like flying, foraging, and socializing.
  • Stress: Confinement and lack of freedom can cause significant stress.
  • Quality of Life: Reduced quality of life compared to living in the wild.

• Conservation:

  • Removing Birds from the Wild: Disrupting natural populations and ecosystems.
  • Supporting Illegal Trade: Contributing to the illegal wildlife trade.

3.3.3. Alternatives

• Birdwatching:

  • Enjoyment: Observe birds in their natural habitat without causing harm.
  • Education: Learn about bird behavior and ecology.
  • Conservation: Support bird conservation efforts.

• Creating a Bird-Friendly Habitat:

  • Planting Native Plants: Provide food and shelter for birds.
  • Providing Water: Offer a bird bath or water source.
  • Avoiding Pesticides: Protect birds from harmful chemicals.

While understanding these risks is important, it reinforces the idea that mourning doves are best left in their natural environment. Appreciating them from a distance ensures their well-being and protects public health. For more information on responsible wildlife interaction, visit PETS.EDU.VN.

4. Rehabilitating Mourning Doves: A Responsible Approach

When can you help a mourning dove? While keeping them is usually illegal, rehabilitation is a responsible way to assist injured birds.

4.1. Identifying a Dove in Need

Knowing when a mourning dove needs help is crucial for effective rehabilitation.

4.1.1. Signs of Injury or Illness

• Visible Injuries: Obvious wounds, broken wings, or bleeding.
• Inability to Stand or Walk: Difficulty moving or maintaining balance.
• Lethargy: Unusually weak or inactive behavior.
• Ruffled Feathers: Feathers that are consistently puffed up, indicating illness or distress.
• Discharge: Discharge from the eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Labored Breathing: Difficulty breathing or panting.

4.1.2. Orphaned or Abandoned Young

• Fallen from Nest: Young doves found on the ground, especially if they are very young and unable to fly.
• No Parental Presence: Absence of parent birds in the vicinity for an extended period.
• Signs of Neglect: Obvious signs of malnourishment, such as being underweight or having poor feather condition.

4.1.3. Entanglement

• Trapped in Objects: Birds caught in netting, fishing line, or other materials.
• Restricted Movement: Visible restrictions to movement caused by entanglement.

4.2. Initial Steps

What should you do if you find a mourning dove in need of help?

4.2.1. Safety First

• Personal Protection: Wear gloves to protect yourself from potential diseases or parasites.
• Calm Approach: Approach the bird slowly and calmly to avoid causing further stress.
• Secure Containment: Gently capture the bird and place it in a secure container, such as a cardboard box or pet carrier.

4.2.2. Providing Temporary Care

• Quiet Environment: Keep the bird in a quiet, dark, and warm place to reduce stress.
• Hydration: Offer a shallow dish of water, but do not force the bird to drink.
• Avoid Feeding: Do not attempt to feed the bird unless instructed by a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian.
• Warmth: Provide a heat source, such as a heating pad set on low, if the bird is cold or weak.

4.2.3. Contacting Professionals

• Wildlife Rehabilitators: Search for licensed wildlife rehabilitators in your area. These professionals have the expertise and facilities to provide proper care for injured or orphaned birds.
• Veterinarians: Contact a veterinarian experienced in avian care for medical advice and treatment.
• Local Animal Shelters: Animal shelters may be able to provide temporary care or connect you with local resources.

4.3. Working with a Rehabilitator

Collaborating with a licensed wildlife rehabilitator is essential for the dove’s recovery and eventual release.

4.3.1. Finding a Licensed Rehabilitator

• State Wildlife Agencies: Contact your state’s wildlife agency for a list of licensed rehabilitators in your area.
• Online Directories: Use online directories, such as those provided by the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA), to find local rehabilitators.
• Veterinarians: Veterinarians may be able to recommend reputable rehabilitators.

4.3.2. Transporting the Bird

• Secure Container: Transport the bird in a secure, well-ventilated container.
• Minimize Stress: Keep the container dark and quiet to reduce stress during transport.
• Direct Transport: Transport the bird directly to the rehabilitator as soon as possible.

4.3.3. Providing Information

• Details of the Rescue: Provide the rehabilitator with as much information as possible about the circumstances of the rescue, including where and when the bird was found, any visible injuries, and any care you have provided.
• Behavioral Observations: Share any observations about the bird’s behavior, such as its appetite, activity level, and vocalizations.

4.4. The Rehabilitation Process

What happens during the rehabilitation of a mourning dove?

4.4.1. Assessment and Treatment

• Veterinary Examination: The rehabilitator will take the bird to a veterinarian for a thorough examination.
• Medical Care: The bird will receive necessary medical treatment, such as wound care, antibiotics, or surgery.
• Nutritional Support: The bird will be provided with a balanced diet to promote healing and recovery.

4.4.2. Housing and Care

• Appropriate Enclosure: The bird will be housed in an enclosure that meets its specific needs, providing adequate space, shelter, and enrichment.
• Minimizing Human Contact: Rehabilitators minimize human contact to prevent the bird from becoming habituated to people, which could reduce its chances of survival in the wild.
• Species-Specific Care: The bird will receive care that is tailored to its species, including appropriate food, water, and environmental conditions.

4.4.3. Pre-Release Conditioning

• Flight Conditioning: The bird will be given opportunities to exercise and strengthen its flight muscles in a large flight cage.
• Foraging Skills: The bird will be encouraged to develop natural foraging skills by searching for food in its enclosure.
• Socialization: If appropriate, the bird will be housed with other doves to promote social interaction and bonding.

4.5. Release Criteria

When is a mourning dove ready to be released back into the wild?

4.5.1. Physical Health

• Full Recovery: The bird must be fully recovered from any injuries or illnesses.
• Healthy Weight: The bird must be at a healthy weight and have good body condition.
• Good Feather Condition: The bird must have healthy, fully functional feathers.

4.5.2. Behavioral Readiness

• Flight Ability: The bird must be able to fly strongly and maneuver effectively.
• Foraging Skills: The bird must be able to find food on its own.
• Fear of Humans: The bird must exhibit a natural fear of humans and avoid contact with them.

4.5.3. Release Location

• Suitable Habitat: The release location should provide suitable habitat for mourning doves, including food, water, shelter, and nesting sites.
• Low Human Activity: The release location should be in an area with low human activity to minimize stress and disturbance.
• Absence of Hazards: The release location should be free from hazards, such as busy roads, power lines, and predators.

4.6. Post-Release Monitoring

How can you ensure the dove successfully readapts to the wild?

4.6.1. Observing from a Distance

• Monitor Behavior: Observe the bird from a distance to ensure it is adapting well to its new environment.
• Check for Signs of Distress: Watch for signs of distress, such as difficulty flying, inability to find food, or vulnerability to predators.

4.6.2. Providing Supplemental Support

• Food and Water: If necessary, provide supplemental food and water in the release area to help the bird transition.
• Shelter: Offer shelter, such as a brush pile or birdhouse, to provide protection from the elements and predators.

4.6.3. Reporting Concerns

• Contact Rehabilitator: If you have any concerns about the bird’s well-being, contact the wildlife rehabilitator for advice and assistance.

By following these guidelines and working with licensed professionals, you can contribute to the successful rehabilitation and release of injured or orphaned mourning doves. Remember, the goal is to return these birds to their natural habitat, where they can thrive and contribute to the ecosystem. For more information on wildlife rehabilitation, visit pets.edu.vn.

5. Building a Bird-Friendly Garden for Mourning Doves

How can you attract mourning doves to your garden? Creating a welcoming habitat is a great way to appreciate these birds.

5.1. Providing Food Sources

Mourning doves are attracted to gardens that offer a variety of food sources.

5.1.1. Seed-Producing Plants

• Native Grasses: Plant native grasses such as little bluestem, switchgrass, and Indian grass. These grasses produce seeds that mourning doves love to eat.
• Coneflowers: Coneflowers, such as purple coneflower and black-eyed Susan, are beautiful and provide seeds that attract doves.
• Sunflowers: Sunflowers are a favorite food source for mourning doves. Plant a variety of sunflower types to provide seeds throughout the growing season.
• Grain Crops: If you have space, consider planting small plots of grain crops such as millet, sorghum, and wheat. These crops provide a reliable food source for doves.

5.1.2. Berry-Producing Shrubs

• Serviceberry: Serviceberry shrubs produce delicious berries that attract a variety of birds, including mourning doves.
• Elderberry: Elderberry shrubs are easy to grow and produce abundant berries that doves enjoy.
• **