Dove Nestlings/Spring Yard Clean-up
With spring-like weather already here in Tucson, baby season is already underway—and right now Tucson Wildlife Center is seeing a surge of Mourning Dove nestlings coming in after trees and shrubs are trimmed.
Mourning doves are year-round residents and often build lightly constructed nests in small branch forks, dense shrubs, patio lights, and other narrow spaces. During spring yard work, these fragile nests can be easily displaced, leaving babies on the ground.
Before trimming or clearing, we encourage everyone to take a few extra minutes to carefully check shrubs and trees for nesting activity. In many cases, delaying trimming for just a few weeks allows young birds to safely fledge.
Doves are not the only ones raising—or preparing to raise—families this time of the year in Tucson. Western Yellow Bats frequently roost beneath dead palm fronds. Removing untrimmed “skirts” without checking first can disturb a hidden group of bats.
Owls may already be nesting in trees, and cottontails often tuck themselves into tall grass and dense ground cover. When weeding or clearing overgrown areas, pause and look carefully before starting.
If you find a baby animal, keep pets secured, and call us for guidance on next steps. You can also check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section on our website (https://tucsonwildlife.com/rescue-faq/) for tips on what to do. A little extra awareness during the spring baby season can make a lifesaving difference for our desert wildlife. If you would like to help patients like these Mourning Doves, click this link to donate,
Another way you can contribute is to visit our “wish list” on Amazon or Chewy below:
We appreciate it, as will all the wild animals in our care!
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