New England Blogs

Friday, May 27, 2011

Squabs

Day 65/Year 2
How cute are these two? OMG they are just too precious!!!! You are looking at  two baby Mourning Doves which were born in this flower box on a second floor patio at the hospital. (I got a tip that they were there so I brought the Nikon to work with me today.)
Mom and Dad were not around, and I was a bit worried that these 2 could have been abandoned. I spoke with one of the hospital workers who works in this area, and she assured me that both Mom and Dad are fine. They have recently been leaving them alone in the nest. I was also informed that they have been practicing spreading their wings, but have yet to take flight. From the size of them, I wouldn't be surprised if the 2 youngsters leave the nest soon.

This shot shows the scale of the size of the bird compared to the flower.
I have leaned so much about wildife since I have taken up this hobby! Today I learned that baby Mourning Doves are called Squabs. I hope you have learned something too! :-)

4 comments:

  1. What great shots. I found a bit of info that leads me to think there might be other chances to capture a similar scene....

    "The nest can be found 5-25 feet above the ground, often in the crotch of a shrub or tree. Laying 2 white eggs that are incubated for 14-15 days. The young will leave the nest in 12-14 days.

    Mourning Doves have been known to reuse the same nest for five sets of eggs in a single season. Usually 2 - 3 broods raised each season."

    Stay tuned : )

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  2. Its great to be in the right place at the right time! Great job!

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  3. Wow! Those images are wonderful.

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  4. How awesome is this to witness??! Soooo jealous!

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