emery@fluke.UUCP (John Emery) (01/17/86)
We have acquired two ring-necked turtle doves over the past few months, a male and a female. One problem we have experienced is that the doves seem to be mating. The previous owner said that as long as they have no nesting material, they will not mate, so we did as she said. Just recently however, the female has occassionally laid an egg. The egg falls through the grate onto the bottom tray and cracks. Then the doves begin to pick at it. I'm not the least bit knowledgable about these birds except for the basic care requirements. Is this normal? Perhaps the eggs are unfertilized. Any responses are welcomed. Thanks, John Emery fluke!emery