5th Year of Doves in Planter - Science Project

by Renee
(Maryland)

Mother Dove and Baby

5 years ago a dove took up residence in our planter right outside of our kitchen window. We'd greet her in the morning and we're captivated as we'd watch exactly what this site says - the male would relieve her for part of the day and bring her twigs early on.

We were so excited when the following year the entire scene started all over. My 3 children became experts on the progression of their little lives with us. This year we had 2 round of eggs - so fun.

Then 3 years ago, when my youngest was up to 2 years old, the birds became "his birds". Again 2 wonderful rounds of eggs and we actually caught one learning how to fly and get around. When the baby fell from the planter I thought for sure I'd have some explaining and "clean up", but she got herself together - shook it off and in a few hours could flutter around. We repeated again last year as well and knew to clean out the stems from the annuals from the previous year to prepare for possibly another spring.

This year, about 3 or 4 weeks ago when I was making breakfast I heard the familiar sound and went running to the door. There they were - building again and back for yet another glorious year. My youngest tells everyone, "OUR bird is BACK!"

We'd like to know if these are the babies that return to where they are born or possibly the same mother? I swore I saw 2 fat ones the first week w/the male. Do the women take turns?
Thanks to anyone that can give us the info!