Page 460 - Hand rearing birds second

454 Hand-Rearing Birds

Figure 27.6 Aviary for Mourning Doves. Note the dropped fabric ceiling to prevent birds scalping
themselves if startled.

occupants to shelter from bad weather. Flooring options include concrete or plywood treated with
marine varnish, which are relatively easy to keep clean. If pea gravel flooring is used, plan to allow
sifting and cleaning between occupants. Floors of dirt or sand are the hardest to decontaminate
when environmentally‐stable, disease‐causing organisms like coccidia appear. Wire walls and the
ceiling should be screened to prevent feather damage caused by panic flights. Doves may flush
frantically when frightened in the aviary and are at risk of lacerating their heads on the ceiling.
Ideally, dove aviaries should have a layer of soft screening between them and the roof to prevent
scalping injuries and bumper trauma to the wings. Food and water should be on the ground and
additional food can be provided in hanging feeders. Doves should have branch‐style perches and
feral pigeons should have shelf‐style perches. In the wild, columbids live in complex environments
and diverse perching opportunities will help prepare them for release.
Pigeons and doves are flocking birds and therefore should be released into a flock of their own
species. Prior to release, the birds should be completely self‐feeding outside for at least 1 week
and have heavy muscling on the breast. In addition to acclimation to outdoor conditions, time in
the aviary will demonstrate the bird’s stamina; do not release if the bird appears winded by short
flights. Feathers should be intact, waterproof, and free of parasites. Any bird that does not appear
wary of humans or other animals is not suitable for release. If a bird has spent significant time