Mourning doves, with their gentle cooing and graceful flight, are a welcome sight in many backyards. If you're hoping to attract these beautiful birds to your property, providing a suitable nesting structure is a great place to start. Building or purchasing a mourning dove birdhouse can significantly increase your chances of successfully hosting a nesting pair. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about creating the perfect home for these peaceful creatures.
What Makes a Good Mourning Dove Birdhouse?
Unlike many songbirds that prefer enclosed cavities, mourning doves need a simple, open platform for nesting. They don't build intricate nests; instead, they create a loose platform of twigs and other debris. Therefore, a mourning dove birdhouse design should reflect this preference.
Key Features of a Mourning Dove Birdhouse:
- Open Platform Design: This is crucial. Avoid enclosed houses; the design should be a simple, flat platform with low sides.
- Size: The platform should be large enough to comfortably accommodate the dove's nest (approximately 10-12 inches in diameter) and the birds themselves.
- Height: Place the platform approximately 6-8 feet off the ground to provide protection from predators. Higher is generally better, but ensure it's accessible for you to clean and maintain.
- Materials: Use sturdy, weather-resistant materials like untreated wood. Avoid pressure-treated lumber as the chemicals can be harmful to birds.
- Support: The platform needs secure support, either mounted to a post, tree, or sturdy building. Ensure it's stable and won't sway in the wind.
- Location: Choose a location sheltered from harsh weather, away from direct sunlight and prevailing winds. Nearby shrubs or trees provide additional cover.
- Roof (Optional): A simple roof can offer some protection from the elements but avoid overhangs that may restrict access.
How to Build a Mourning Dove Birdhouse
Building your own birdhouse can be a rewarding experience. However, for those less inclined towards DIY, pre-made birdhouses are readily available online and at garden centers.
Materials You Might Need (for DIY):
- Untreated wood (1x6 inch boards are a good starting point)
- Wood screws
- Exterior wood glue
- Saw
- Drill
- Sandpaper
- Exterior-grade paint or stain (optional, but helps protect the wood)
Step-by-Step Construction (simplified):
- Cut the wood: Cut the wood to the desired dimensions based on your chosen design.
- Assemble the platform: Secure the wood pieces together to form the platform base and sides.
- Securely attach the birdhouse to a post or tree.
- Sand smooth: Sand all edges and surfaces to remove splinters.
- Apply a weather-resistant finish (optional).
Where to Place a Mourning Dove Birdhouse?
Choosing the right location is as critical as the design itself.
Ideal Placement Considerations:
- Protection from Predators: Cats, snakes, and larger birds can prey on doves and their young. Place the birdhouse away from dense ground cover that could harbor predators.
- Accessibility: Ensure the birdhouse is easily accessible for cleaning and monitoring, especially during nesting season.
- Shelter: Find a spot that offers some protection from the wind and direct sunlight.
- Proximity to Food and Water: Locate the birdhouse near a reliable water source and areas where doves can find food, such as open fields, grassy areas, and seed feeders.
What Do Mourning Doves Eat?
Mourning doves primarily consume seeds, but their diet can vary depending on the season and available food sources.
Mourning Dove Diet:
- Seeds: Sunflower seeds, millet, wheat, and cracked corn are among their favorites.
- Fruits and Berries: They also consume various fruits and berries when available.
- Insects: While mostly vegetarian, they sometimes consume insects, especially during breeding season.
When Do Mourning Doves Nest?
Mourning doves can nest year-round in warmer climates, but their breeding season typically peaks in spring and summer.
Mourning Dove Breeding Season:
The exact timing of the nesting season varies slightly depending on geographical location and weather patterns. However, generally, they begin nesting in early spring and can have multiple broods throughout the warmer months.
How to Clean a Mourning Dove Birdhouse?
Cleaning is essential to maintain a hygienic environment for the birds and to prevent the spread of disease.
Cleaning the Birdhouse:
Clean the birdhouse after each nesting season. Remove any accumulated debris, droppings, or old nest material gently. You can use a stiff brush and mild soap and water to clean the surfaces, then thoroughly rinse and allow to dry completely before the next breeding season.
By following these guidelines, you'll significantly increase your chances of attracting these peaceful and beautiful birds to your backyard. Remember, patience is key. It might take some time for mourning doves to discover your new birdhouse, but with a little persistence, you may soon be enjoying the gentle cooing of these charming visitors.
