Mourning doves are a protected migratory bird species, so there are laws and regulations around handling their nests and eggs. While it may be tempting to move a mourning dove nest to a location that is more convenient for you, there are important factors to consider before doing so.
Is it legal to move a mourning dove nest?
In the United States, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act makes it illegal to take, possess, transport, sell, or purchase migratory birds, their eggs, parts, and nests except as permitted under the Act. This includes mourning doves and their nests.
There are some exceptions that allow for legal taking or possession of mourning doves, their eggs, parts, and nests. However, these require permits or authorization from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
So in most cases, it is illegal for unlicensed individuals to move or disturb an active mourning dove nest with eggs. Doing so could result in fines or penalties.
When can you legally move a mourning dove nest?
There are a few scenarios when it may be legal for an unlicensed individual to move a mourning dove nest:
- If the nest is inactive and does not contain any eggs or hatchlings
- If you have a depredation permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that authorizes nest relocation
- If the nest poses an imminent threat to human health or safety (i.e. located near high-voltage equipment)
In most other situations, it is illegal to move or disturb an active mourning dove nest. You should consult your state wildlife agency to understand applicable laws and permit requirements in your area.
What are the risks of moving a mourning dove nest with eggs?
There are several risks associated with improperly moving an active mourning dove nest with eggs:
- The adult doves may abandon the nest, leaving the eggs to die
- Rough handling can damage the eggs and kill the developing chicks inside
- Moving the nest to an unsuitable location may inhibit the doves’ ability to properly incubate the eggs
- Increased exposure and disturbance may attract predators to the nest
- You may face legal penalties for violating migratory bird protections
Mourning doves are highly sensitive to disturbance. Even if done properly, nest relocation can jeopardize the survival of the eggs and hatchlings. It’s best to avoid disrupting active nests whenever possible.
How to properly move a mourning dove nest
If you have acquired proper permits and need to move an active mourning dove nest, here are some tips to increase the chances of survival:
- Wear gloves and move the nest during the day when adult doves are away foraging
- Carefully remove the entire intact nest and relocate it as close as possible to the original site
- Use a sturdy platform or basket to support the nest so the eggs don’t roll around
- Move the nest less than 300 feet from the original location if possible
- Place the nest in a sheltered spot away from disturbance and predators
- Avoid handling the eggs directly
- Monitor the nest after moving to ensure the doves return and resume incubating
Even when done properly, nest relocation can fail. Have alternate plans ready in case the adult doves abandon the nest after it is moved.
When to call a wildlife rehabilitator
If you find orphaned or injured mourning dove hatchlings after a nest is disturbed, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. Raising mourning doves requires special techniques, diets, and housing. Unlicensed individuals are prohibited from keeping protected migratory birds in captivity.
Signs that require calling a wildlife rehabilitator include:
- Finding dove eggs or hatchlings on the ground outside of the nest
- Noticing an absence of adult doves caring for the nest after several hours
- Discovering damaged eggs or injured hatchlings in the nest
- Observing nestlings that appear cold, weak, or malformed
A wildlife rehabilitator can properly assess the condition of orphaned or injured doves and give them the supportive care needed to survive. Locate a rehabilitator in your state through wildlife agencies or online databases.
Preventing the need to move mourning dove nests
The best approach is to avoid the need to move mourning dove nests in the first place. Here are some tips:
- Watch for nest building activity in spring and identify sites mourning doves prefer on your property
- Avoid pruning trees or shrubs with nests during nesting season
- Delay construction projects and repairs near active nest sites
- Place nesting platforms or boxes to provide doves with attractive alternative sites
- Install deterrents such as wire mesh or bird netting to discourage nesting in problematic areas
- Trim vegetation well before nesting season so doves don’t build in hazardous locations
With some advance planning and wildlife-friendly practices, you can often prevent situations where mourning dove nest relocation becomes necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for mourning dove eggs to hatch?
Mourning dove eggs take about 14-15 days to hatch. The female dove incubates the eggs constantly during this period until the hatchlings emerge.
Can you touch mourning dove eggs?
It’s best not to touch mourning dove eggs if possible. Direct handling can remove protective oils from the shell and expose the eggs to contaminants. The adult doves may also abandon touched eggs. Handle eggs only if relocating a nest under proper permits.
Do mourning doves reuse nests?
Mourning doves may reuse a nest for a second brood in the same breeding season. However, they do not typically reuse the same nest across multiple years. The flimsy platform nests degrade quickly in the elements.
How do you deter mourning doves from nesting?
Methods to deter mourning doves from problematic nest sites include removing established nests after breeding season, installing bird netting or wire mesh over areas, using bird repellent gel, hanging foil strips near ledges, and placing owl decoys or predator silhouettes nearby.
Where should I put a mourning dove nesting box?
Good locations for mourning dove nesting boxes include on tree trunks, fence posts, or platforms 10-30 feet above ground with a clear flight path. Face the entrance away from prevailing winds and keep a 3-4 inch clearance around the entry hole.
Summary
Moving an active mourning dove nest with eggs often carries legal and ethical concerns. It risks nest abandonment and mortality of eggs or hatchlings. Relocating nests should be a last resort with proper permits. Preventing the need for nest relocation through planning and deterrents is ideal. If orphaned hatchlings result, immediately contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
Scenario | Legality of Moving Nest |
---|---|
Inactive nest without eggs | Legal |
Active nest with eggs or hatchlings | Illegal without permit |
Nest poses imminent threat to safety | May be legal but consult authorities |
Permit granted from Fish and Wildlife Service | Legal with adherence to permit terms |
Conclusion
Mourning doves provide ecological benefits and bring natural beauty to outdoor spaces, so supporting their successful nesting should be a priority. With responsible land stewardship and properly addressing rare cases requiring intervention, mourning dove nests can remain undisturbed to allow these special birds to thrive.