13 Best Morning Dove Nesting Boxes To Attract Birds Easily
Discover the top nesting boxes that make your yard a perfect home for morning doves this season.
Ever find yourself staring out the window, hoping to catch a glimpse of a morning dove gracefully settling in your yard? You’re not alone. Many bird lovers dream of creating that perfect little sanctuary where these gentle birds feel right at home.
But here’s the catch: without the right nesting box, your yard might just be a pit stop rather than a permanent residence for morning doves. It’s frustrating to see them flutter around, looking for a cozy spot, only to fly off empty-handed. That’s like setting up a fancy hotel and forgetting to put out the welcome mat.
The good news? Choosing the right morning dove nesting box can turn your outdoor space into a bird magnet. With the right design and placement, you’ll soon have these charming visitors nesting happily, adding life and melody to your mornings.
In this article, we’ll explore the 13 best morning dove nesting boxes that make attracting these beautiful birds a breeze. Get ready to transform your yard into a morning dove haven!
How to Choose the Right Morning Dove Nesting Box
Size and Dimensions
Choose a nesting box with the right size to comfortably fit morning doves, typically around 6 to 8 inches wide and deep.
Material Durability
Select boxes made from weather-resistant materials like cedar or durable plastic to withstand outdoor conditions.
Mounting Options
Check if the box can be easily mounted on poles, trees, or walls to suit your yard’s layout.
Natural Appearance
Choose a design and color that blend with your yard to attract morning doves and keep them feeling safe.
Tips for Where to Put a Morning Dove Nesting Box and Understanding Their Nesting Behavior
Placing a morning dove nesting box in the right spot is crucial to attract these gentle birds and support their breeding success. Morning doves prefer quiet, sheltered areas that provide safety from predators and harsh weather. When selecting a location, consider placing the box in a spot with some natural cover, such as near trees or shrubs, but avoid overly dense foliage that might invite predators.
Morning doves typically build their nests on horizontal branches or in shrubbery, so mimicking these natural conditions with your nesting box placement can increase the chances of occupancy. The box should be mounted securely at a height between 5 to 15 feet off the ground, which balances accessibility for the birds and protection from ground-based threats.
Understanding Morning Dove Nesting Behavior
Morning doves are known for their simple, loosely constructed nests made from twigs and grasses. They often reuse nesting sites year after year if conditions remain favorable. These birds are monogamous during the breeding season and may raise multiple broods, so providing a stable nesting environment can encourage repeated use. Morning doves prefer sites that offer good visibility to detect predators early but also some concealment to stay hidden.
When installing your nesting box, ensure it faces away from prevailing winds and direct afternoon sun to keep the nest comfortable. Avoid placing the box near bird feeders or busy human activity areas, as disturbances can discourage nesting. Regularly check the box for cleanliness and remove old nesting material after the breeding season to prepare for new occupants.
- Choose a quiet, sheltered location with partial cover
- Mount the box 5 to 15 feet high on a sturdy post or tree
- Face the box away from harsh weather and direct sun
- Keep the area free from frequent disturbances
- Maintain and clean the box annually to encourage reuse
By understanding and accommodating the natural nesting behavior of morning doves, you can create an inviting environment that supports their breeding and brings these charming birds closer to your home.