Doves and pigeons, known for their graceful beauty and unique dietary needs, often require specialized care, especially when orphaned. Unlike most birds that readily accept insects and regurgitated adult food, doves and pigeons (columbine birds) rely on a unique “milk” produced in their crop. This article will guide you on how to prepare suitable food for orphaned baby doves and pigeons, ensuring their healthy development.
Understanding Dove and Pigeon Crop Milk
Dove and pigeon crop milk is a specialized secretion, similar to that produced by flamingos, penguins, and parrots. It’s crucial to understand that this “milk” is very different from mammalian milk. Cow or goat milk is not suitable for doves and pigeons, as it contains high levels of lactose, which they cannot digest. This undigested lactose can lead to fermentation, causing bloat, diarrhea, respiratory distress, and ultimately, death.
Pigeon milk consists of approximately 70% water. The remaining solids are primarily protein (53-58%) and fat (34-35%), with very little carbohydrates. The precise composition of dove milk remains unknown, but it is presumed to be almost the same as pigeon milk. The nutritional composition varies based on factors such as the time of day, parent’s diet, the number of offspring, and the age of the offspring. Fortunately, infant animals can adapt to these variations. Natural pigeon/dove milk also contains essential vitamins and trace minerals. As the babies mature, partially digested grains are added to the mix.
Formulating Homemade Dove Food: Key Ingredients and Techniques
Many recipes have been successful in raising orphaned doves and pigeons. These recipes often include ingredients to mimic the fat and protein content of crop milk. Common components include:
- Fat Content: Nutrical®, olive oil, or vegetable oils.
- Protein: Peas, hemp powder, or vegan soy products.
- Supplements: Human or animal vitamin supplements and digestive enzymes.
While a pinch of this and a smidgen of that approach can work, a more precise formula is recommended for consistency.
The MAC Milk Recipe
MAC Milk is a commonly used recipe for feeding orphan baby doves and pigeons, but the specific recipe composition is not mentioned in the original text. This highlights the importance of having a reliable and consistent formula.
Commercial Formulas
Commercial parrot-raising formulas, such as Exact®, have proven effective for doves. In Europe, Psittacus Catalonia Wildiet® formula is a popular choice.
Dr. Hines’ Homemade Dove Food Recipe
This recipe, developed by Dr. Hines, is based on avian nutrition principles and readily available, safe, and economical ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1.25 measuring cups of dry instant oatmeal
- 1 cup of shaken Silk® unsweetened organic soy milk (microwaved for 30 seconds)
- 2 large whole eggs
- Additional Silk® soy milk to desired consistency
Instructions:
- Pour instant oatmeal into a cup.
- Add microwaved soy milk to the oatmeal.
- Mix well and microwave for 1 minute.
- Let the mixture cool slightly and add the eggs. Mix thoroughly. Do not microwave after adding eggs.
- Mix until homogenous.
- Top off with soy milk to achieve a comfortable consistency.
- Refrigerate: Allow the mix to sit in the refrigerator for an hour to dissolve lumps and achieve a creamy texture.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more soy milk if the mixture is too thick or if the babies are dehydrated. A thinner consistency is needed for younger birds.
This mixture should drip from a syringe during the first week, gradually thickening as the birds mature.
The Importance of Egg Yolk
Egg yolk is a good source of vitamin D3, while egg whites provide balanced protein. As the birds mature, reduce the number of eggs to one per cup.
Feeding Techniques
Bring the formula to room temperature before feeding. Store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. The most common cause of crop burn-throughs is feeding unevenly microwaved formulas with hot spots. Always stir well after microwaving and test the temperature before feeding.
Methods:
- Disposable Pipette: Place a small amount of formula in the baby’s mouth, allowing the bird to swallow until the crop is moderately full. Avoid overfilling.
- 3ml Disposable Syringe and Catheter: This method is efficient for feeding multiple birds. Use intravenous catheter extension sets (past their expiration date) obtained from hospital supply departments.
Tubing Technique:
- Gently insert the catheter down the squab’s throat until your finger feels the end of the catheter at the point where the bird’s neck enters its body.
- Slowly express the majority of the formula.
- As you withdraw the catheter, leave a small amount of formula near the rear of the bird’s mouth.
It is unlikely that the tube will enter the windpipe due to the baby bird’s strong reflex to close its larynx when it feels food in its mouth. However, observe an experienced aviculturist or wild bird rehabber tube feed before attempting this method.
Feeding Frequency:
- First Week: Four to five feedings per day.
- Gradually Reduce: Decrease to three feedings, then two.
- Timing: Feed when the crop is empty. Avoid feeding after sundown.
Temperature Considerations
Infant doves are susceptible to digestive problems if kept at the wrong temperature. Maintain a temperature of around 32°C (89.6°F) for optimal crop emptying time.
Dos and Don’ts of Dove Food Preparation and Feeding
- Do:
- Ensure the bird’s head is in a star-gazing position with the neck extended when feeding.
- Maintain good sanitation in your bird kitchen.
- Don’t:
- Put pressure on the full or partially full crop.
- Force a catheter or pipette downward.
- Feed a bird that is not bright and alert.
- Always feed from the same side. This can predispose birds to developing scissor beak.
Addressing Dehydration and Chilling
Dehydration and chilling are common issues in orphaned baby birds. Dehydrated babies need subcutaneous and intramuscular fluids. Mildly dehydrated babies can be given warmed lactated ringers solution (LRS) for their first few feedings. Supplemental warmth is also crucial.
Introducing Solid Food
Once only small tufts of down remain on the head, introduce dishes of water and seed grains. A small rock or marbles in the water dishes will prevent the birds from tipping them over. Grind the grain mixture before offering it, as these young birds do not have gizzard gravel at this age.
Grit Supplementation
When offering whole seeds and grains, mix in a bit of fine stone grit. Ensure the grit is the correct size to avoid obstruction.
Why Oatmeal-Based Diet?
Whole rolled oats are highly nutritious and gluten-free. Instant baby oatmeal blends readily with warm water and is pre-fortified with vitamins and calcium. Products intended for human consumption are rigorously monitored for quality, ensuring the ingredients are safe and of top quality.
Benefits of Adding Raw Eggs
- Increase fat/energy and protein content.
- Make the mix “syringable” due to egg albumin’s lubricating properties.
- Provide important vitamins and antioxidants.
- Offer protective antibodies (IgY) that control intestinal bacteria and C. albicans.
Safety of Feeding Raw Eggs
While there is a small risk of salmonella, it can be minimized by buying free-range chicken eggs. Pasteurized whole eggs are an alternative, but ensure the pasteurization process preserves IgY antibodies.
Vitamin A and Carotenoids
Oatmeal and egg yolk are rich in carotenoids, which avian bodies can convert into active vitamin A (retinol). Carotenoids are essential for maintaining a strong defense against infections and healthy skin and feathers.
Feather Stress Bars
Feather stress bars indicate interruptions in the steady flow of protein building blocks (amino acids) during feather formation. These lines are a look back at times of malnutrition.
Calcium and Leg Deformities
Insufficient calcium during growth can lead to deformed legs and feet. However, twisted or bowed foot problems are more likely caused by smooth or flat cage floors. Provide a slightly indented twig mat to mimic a natural nest floor.
Conclusion
Raising orphaned baby doves and pigeons requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs. By understanding the principles of crop milk composition and following a reliable recipe, you can provide these vulnerable birds with the nutrition they need to thrive. Remember to monitor their health, adjust the diet as they grow, and consult with experienced wildlife rehabilitators for guidance.
