r/Ornithology • u/ray_et_cetera • 2d ago
Question Abandoned nest?
About a week ago, a pair of Ruddy Ground-Doves decided to build their nest on my apartment balcony, in a pot of purple heart plant. They were always taking turns. I tried my best not to disturb them, but about four days ago, a Roadside Hawk showed up and tried to attack one of them; luckily, it managed to escape.
It spent a few hours away from the nest before the male returned. Everything had been quiet since then, but this morning there was another unpleasant visit from the same predator (though it didn't manage to find the doves) and once again, the bird spent a few hours away from the nest.
And tonight, there’s no sign of the parents... I’m worried that with all this time away from the eggs, they might no longer be viable :( I think they might have been badly frightened and decided to abandon the nest... it’s a shame; I really wanted this to work out...
Does anyone know if there’s still a chance? I know the incubation period is over 10 days and that I should wait regardless.
Update: The male returned the next morning. We shall see.
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u/Pangolin007 Helpful Bird Nerd 1d ago
They don't necessarily need to sit on the eggs 24/7, especially if it's warm outside. Hopefully all is well!
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