Can I Have a Mourning Dove as a Pet? What You Need to Know

AvatarByMargaret Shultz Dove, Pet & Companion Birds

The gentle cooing of a mourning dove is a soothing sound that many nature lovers find deeply comforting. It’s no surprise that some people wonder, “Can I have a mourning dove as a pet?” These graceful birds, known for their soft calls and delicate appearance, captivate the hearts of bird enthusiasts and casual admirers alike. But before welcoming one into your home, it’s important to understand the unique considerations involved in caring for such a wild species.

Mourning doves are native to North America and are often seen perched quietly in trees or gliding gracefully through the sky. Their serene presence and peaceful demeanor make them appealing companions, yet they are fundamentally wild birds with specific needs and behaviors. The question of whether they can be kept as pets touches on legal, ethical, and practical aspects that every potential caretaker should explore.

In this article, we will delve into the realities of having a mourning dove as a pet, including the challenges and responsibilities it entails. Whether you’re drawn by their beauty or their calming nature, gaining a clear understanding will help you make an informed decision about whether a mourning dove is the right feathered friend for you.

Legal Considerations for Keeping Mourning Doves as Pets

Before deciding to keep a mourning dove as a pet, it is crucial to understand the legal framework governing their possession. Mourning doves are native wild birds protected under various wildlife regulations in many countries. In the United States, for example, mourning doves are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), which makes it illegal to capture, keep, or sell migratory birds without a proper permit. Violations of this act can result in significant fines and legal penalties.

In some regions, permits may be available for rehabilitation or educational purposes, but these are generally not intended for private pet ownership. It is essential to check with local wildlife agencies or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to determine the specific rules applicable to your area.

Care Requirements for Mourning Doves

If you have obtained a mourning dove legally, providing proper care is essential for its well-being. Mourning doves have unique needs compared to typical pet birds like parrots or finches.

Housing:
Mourning doves require a spacious aviary or large cage that allows for flight and movement. The enclosure should be placed in a quiet, sheltered area to reduce stress and protect from predators.

Diet:
Their diet primarily consists of seeds, which should be fresh and varied to meet nutritional needs. Commercial dove or pigeon seed mixes are suitable, supplemented by:

  • Millet
  • Cracked corn
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Small amounts of fresh greens and fruits

Fresh water must be available at all times for drinking and bathing.

Social Needs:
Mourning doves are social birds and often do better with companions. Keeping them in pairs or small groups can promote natural behaviors and reduce loneliness.

Health Care:
Regular monitoring for signs of illness, such as lethargy, changes in droppings, or feather damage, is necessary. Consult an avian veterinarian familiar with wild bird species for routine checkups or if health issues arise.

Behavioral Traits and Interaction

Understanding mourning dove behavior helps in providing appropriate care and interaction. They are generally gentle and calm but can be shy and easily frightened by sudden movements or loud noises.

  • Mourning doves communicate through soft cooing sounds, which are part of their natural behavior.
  • They may show affection by preening or sitting quietly near their human caretakers if trust is established.
  • Unlike some pet birds, they do not typically enjoy extensive handling and may prefer minimal physical contact.

Encouraging natural behaviors, such as nesting and foraging, can improve their quality of life in captivity.

Comparison of Mourning Dove Care with Other Common Pet Birds

Aspect Mourning Dove Budgerigar (Budgie) Cockatiel
Legal Status Protected; permit often required Not protected; widely kept as pets Not protected; widely kept as pets
Housing Needs Large aviary preferred Medium cage suitable Medium to large cage
Diet Seed mix, fresh greens Seed mix, pellets, fruits Pellets, seeds, fruits, vegetables
Social Behavior Social; prefers pairs Highly social; enjoys human interaction Social; bonds with humans
Handling Minimal; shy Enjoys handling Enjoys handling
Noise Level Soft cooing Chirping Whistling, talking

Legal Considerations for Keeping Mourning Doves as Pets

Mourning doves (Zenaida macroura) are protected under various wildlife conservation laws, which significantly impact the legality of keeping them as pets. Understanding these regulations is crucial before attempting to acquire or house a mourning dove.

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 is the primary legislation in the United States that protects mourning doves. Under this act, it is generally illegal to capture, kill, possess, or sell migratory birds, including mourning doves, without a valid permit.

Aspect Details
Permits Required for possession; issued primarily for rehabilitation, education, or scientific research
Exceptions Licensed hunting during regulated seasons; possession of birds legally bred in captivity
Penalties Fines and possible imprisonment for illegal possession or harm

In addition to federal laws, state and local regulations may impose further restrictions or requirements. Therefore, it is essential to consult with relevant wildlife agencies to ensure compliance.

Ethical and Welfare Considerations

Keeping mourning doves as pets involves ethical responsibilities and welfare concerns that must be carefully evaluated.

  • Natural Behavior: Mourning doves are wild birds with specific behavioral needs, including flying, foraging, and social interaction.
  • Stress and Health: Captivity can cause stress, leading to health issues such as weakened immune systems or behavioral problems.
  • Habitat Requirements: They require spacious enclosures that allow flight and mimic natural environments.
  • Dietary Needs: Their diet consists mainly of seeds, and proper nutrition is essential to prevent malnutrition.
  • Social Needs: Mourning doves are social birds that thrive in pairs or groups; isolation can lead to distress.

Prospective owners must be prepared to provide an environment that meets these complex needs to ensure the bird’s well-being.

Alternatives to Keeping Wild Mourning Doves

For those interested in mourning doves but unable or unwilling to keep wild-caught birds, several alternatives exist:

  • Captive-bred Doves: Some breeders specialize in raising mourning doves legally bred in captivity, which are often more suitable as pets.
  • Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers: Volunteering or supporting rehabilitation centers can offer opportunities to engage with these birds without ownership.
  • Bird Watching and Habitat Support: Creating dove-friendly environments in your yard encourages wild mourning doves to visit naturally.

Care Requirements for Mourning Doves in Captivity

When legally and ethically permitted to keep a mourning dove, meeting their care requirements is essential for their health and happiness.

Care Aspect Guidelines
Housing Spacious aviary or large cage with room for flight; sheltered from predators and harsh weather
Diet High-quality seed mix tailored for doves, supplemented with fresh greens and grit for digestion
Water Clean, fresh water available at all times for drinking and bathing
Social Interaction Housing with compatible doves or regular human interaction to prevent loneliness
Health Care Regular observation for signs of illness; access to avian veterinary care when needed

Conclusion on Pet Ownership of Mourning Doves

While it is technically possible to keep mourning doves as pets under certain legal and ethical conditions, the complexity of their care and the strict legal protections make them unsuitable for casual ownership. Anyone considering this responsibility must ensure full compliance with wildlife laws, provide an appropriate environment, and commit to the lifelong welfare of the bird.

Expert Perspectives on Keeping Mourning Doves as Pets

Dr. Emily Hartman (Avian Veterinarian, Wildlife Care Clinic). While mourning doves can be kept in captivity, they require specialized care that mimics their natural environment. They are delicate birds with specific dietary and space needs, and improper care can lead to stress and health issues. It is essential to ensure that any pet mourning dove has adequate room to fly and proper nutrition to thrive.

James Caldwell (Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist, Dove Conservation Society). Mourning doves are wild birds and are not traditionally suited to be pets. In many regions, it is illegal to keep them without proper permits due to their protected status. Rehabilitation and conservation efforts focus on releasing these birds back into the wild rather than domesticating them, as their natural behaviors and needs are best met outside captivity.

Dr. Linda Chen (Ornithologist and Author, “Birds in Captivity”). From an ornithological perspective, mourning doves can adapt to captivity if their environment is carefully managed. However, they are sensitive to changes and require a quiet, stable habitat. Prospective owners must be prepared for the commitment involved in providing enrichment and monitoring their health closely to prevent common issues such as respiratory infections and malnutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I legally keep a mourning dove as a pet?
In many regions, mourning doves are protected under wildlife laws, making it illegal to keep them as pets without proper permits. Always check local and federal regulations before attempting to keep one.

Are mourning doves suitable as domestic pets?
Mourning doves are wild birds and generally do not adapt well to captivity. They require specialized care and a natural environment to thrive, which is difficult to replicate in a home setting.

What kind of habitat do mourning doves need if kept in captivity?
If legally permitted, mourning doves need a spacious aviary with plenty of natural light, fresh air, and access to food and water that mimics their natural diet, including seeds and grains.

Can mourning doves be hand-raised and socialized?
Hand-raising mourning doves from hatchlings can increase tameness, but they often retain wild instincts. Socialization requires consistent, gentle handling and patience.

What are the ethical considerations of keeping a mourning dove as a pet?
Keeping mourning doves in captivity can impact their well-being due to their wild nature. Ethical considerations include ensuring their physical and psychological needs are met and respecting wildlife protection laws.

What should I do if I find an injured mourning dove?
Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian experienced with wild birds. Do not attempt to keep the bird as a pet, as proper care requires specialized knowledge and permits.
In summary, while mourning doves are beautiful and gentle birds, keeping one as a pet involves significant legal and ethical considerations. Many regions have strict wildlife protection laws that prohibit capturing or owning wild mourning doves without proper permits. Additionally, these birds have specific habitat and dietary needs that can be challenging to meet in a domestic environment, which may impact their health and well-being.

It is essential to thoroughly research local regulations and consult with wildlife authorities before attempting to keep a mourning dove as a pet. If you are interested in caring for birds, considering domesticated species that are bred for captivity may be a more responsible and sustainable option. Providing an environment that supports the natural behaviors and needs of any bird is crucial for their welfare.

Ultimately, the decision to keep a mourning dove as a pet should be made with careful consideration of legal restrictions, the bird’s welfare, and the commitment required to provide proper care. Prioritizing the conservation and respect for wild species ensures that these birds can continue to thrive in their natural habitats.

Author Profile

Avatar
Margaret Shultz
Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding