Yesterday, I mowed the lawn. There’s nothing special about that. It happens regularly. Something special happened this time, and that’s what this post is about.
We have a crab apple tree that has never thrived. We’ve planned to remove that tree, but the last few years a dove has made her nest in the tree. Neither Sylvia nor I have the heart to evict the dove while she is on her nest. For that reason, the tree still stands.
When I mow around this tree, the tractor catches on a branch. Yesterday as I mowed, I was easing past the tree, the tractor was rubbing, the tree was shaking and I looked at the nest. I wanted to see an empty nest. What I saw was this:
Momma dove sits bravely on her nest.
Yes, there within arm’s reach sat the fearless mother. She refused to move, and my tree-removal plans are still on hold.
Aww, look at her go! And how nice for you guys to keep her tree up. We have a bird who builds in a nest every year too (same tree, every year). 🙂
At our previous home it was a beautiful house finch that nested in our carport. 🙂
I’m with Sharkey–they make the WORST nests! It’s amazing that any of their babies survive.
She’ll be gone soon enough—you can take the tree down then. Do they have bird houses for mourning doves???
I don’t know about dove houses. Doesn’t matter, there are plenty of places for mama dove to build another nest. :hkitty:
Nice picture of her! They make such terrible nests you have to wonder how they hold the babies.
Thanks, Shark. At least her nest more substantial than the Killdeer’s. :rolleyes:
Beautiful picture of a devoted mama. Love it!
When I shared the story with Sylvia, I marveled that the dove had not flown. Sylvia explained, “She’s a country gal and isn’t afraid of a tractor.” Makes sense to me. 🙂