Guide to Dove Egg Laying, and Lifespan
Breeding Season | Number of Broods
Mourning doves begin breeding as early as March and may continue into late September, depending on region and food supply.
In southern climates, where warm weather and food remain stable, some pairs may nest nearly year-round.
Unlike many songbirds that raise just one brood annually, mourning doves often raise three to six broods in a single season — a pattern documented in Kansas State University research examining dove reproductive strategies and vital rates.
Where and How Doves Build Nests
Dove nests are notably simple — loosely woven platforms made from twigs, grass stems, pine needles, and rootlets.
They may be placed in trees, shrubs, hanging planters, or even rain gutters and ledges on human structures.
The male gathers nesting material and brings it to the female, who arranges it.
Mourning doves do not add insulation or structure reinforcement, which makes their nests vulnerable to wind and predators.
Egg-Laying Patterns, Clutch Size
Each clutch typically contains two smooth, white eggs. This consistent clutch size supports their strategy of frequent breeding with focused parental care.
It's rare for mourning doves to lay just one egg or more than two unless a re-nesting attempt happens quickly after a failed brood.
Incubation Period | Parental Roles
Both male and female share incubation duties, alternating in shifts — males usually take the day shift, and females incubate at night.
The incubation period averages 14 days, during which eggs must be kept at a stable temperature and humidity level.
This joint effort ensures the embryos develop successfully, even in fluctuating weather.
Development: Hatchling to Fledgling
Once hatched, young doves (called squabs) remain in the nest for another 12 to 15 days. Parents feed them "pigeon milk," a protein-rich secretion produced in the crop.
As they grow, squabs begin preening, exercising their wings, and eventually take their first short flights.
After fledging, they often stay near the nest area for several days, still receiving food and learning to forage and evade danger.
Typical Lifespan in the Wild
In the wild, mourning doves face numerous threats — hawks, cats, window collisions, and harsh weather among them.
While many perish within their first year, a successful adult may live 3 to 5 years, with some documented cases reaching 7 to 10 years in ideal conditions.
Survival is closely tied to habitat stability, predator density, and access to food and water.
Your Help Can Increase Survival
Mourning doves are among the most prolific nesters in North America, but they face growing challenges due to habitat loss, window collisions, and suburban sprawl.
You can help improve their nesting success by maintaining safe, quiet spaces in your yard — shrubs, small trees, or even hanging planters can provide shelter for nests.
Avoid using lawn chemicals, as these can affect both adult doves and the young squabs that feed on grassy seeds.
If you find a nest in a vulnerable spot — like a planter near a front door — try to minimize disturbance until the young have fledged, which typically takes just two weeks.
Finally, consider placing a shallow dish of clean water in your yard, especially during hot months.
Nesting adults need to hydrate often, and a small water source can increase their chances of raising multiple broods successfully.
Learn all about the Doves Diet and Feeding Behaviors
