Diamond Doves: Care and Breeding Guide for the Littlest Dove

The Diamond Dove (Geopelia cuneata) is the smallest member of the dove family, measuring just 19-21cm in length and weighing between 23-32 grams. Native to Australia, these tiny doves usually inhabit semi-arid regions close to water and are often spotted in parks and gardens during dry seasons. In the wild, they live socially in flocks, a behaviour they retain in captivity where they thrive living in pairs or colonies. Their delicate size and gentle nature make them a captivating choice for bird enthusiasts.

Diamond Doves display a distinctive appearance with grey bodies, highlighted by shimmering white diamond-shaped speckles on their wings—hence their name. They have a bright orange eye ring, more vivid in males, which helps in sex identification, as females have duller and smaller eye rings. Their legs and feet are pink, adding to their delicate charm. While wild Diamond Doves typically live 3-5 years, those cared for in captivity can enjoy a long lifespan of 15-25 years.

They are ground feeders with a characteristic head-bobbing walk and direct, strong flight. When choosing a cage, it is crucial to remember that these birds do not climb or cling to bars like parrots or finches. A wide, spacious cage allowing flight from perch to perch is recommended, avoiding cages with wire floors to prevent foot injuries.

Diet and Social Behaviour

In the wild, Diamond Doves feed mainly on grass seeds and small insects such as ants. In captivity, a diet of soft seed mixes supplemented with fresh leafy greens like kale and spinach is ideal, as their small beaks cannot handle hard or coarse foods. Access to grit is essential to aid digestion, helping break down whole seeds in their stomachs.

These doves can bond with humans if hand-raised from a young age, forming affectionate relationships where they might preen their owner and perch on shoulders or fingers. However, this bond sometimes leads to the bird viewing the human as a mate, which can cause frequent egg-laying and stress. Without hand-feeding, they tend to be less interactive, avoiding human contact rather than showing aggression. Their light colouring makes health checks like mite inspections relatively easy.

Diamond Doves generally do well with other peaceful birds in mixed aviaries but may be vulnerable to feather plucking by more assertive species such as zebra finches or canaries. This behaviour tends to diminish over time as the Diamond Dove adapts. If a bird cannot defend itself, solitary or species-specific aviaries might be a better choice.

Housing and Environment

For indoor housing, avoid keeping Diamond Doves in bedrooms as they are prone to nocturnal fright responses that can be noisy and disruptive. Providing a quiet, well-sheltered environment with consistent lighting helps maintain their well-being. Their typical calls include soft cooing sounds and more persistent calls from males during mating displays.

These birds are hardy and do not require special heating provided they have shelter from drafts and cold. Signs of ill health include fluffed feathers and listlessness, which indicate a need for veterinary advice. Good hygiene, regular cage cleaning, and attentive observation are key to preventing common issues such as respiratory infections and parasitic infestations.

Breeding Diamond Doves

Breeding behaviour starts when the female shows readiness and the male performs a charming display, bowing, tail-fanning, and cooing to attract her. They are affectionate and appear to preen and cuddle before mating.

Nests are constructed from grasses and twigs and are often placed in nest pans or platforms with a low lip. Diamond Doves may also use finch nesting boxes or even food bowls. It's important to note that adding a nest doesn't guarantee usage as they can be particular about locations.

Typically, the female lays two eggs, which are incubated for 13-14 days. Chicks are fledged in approximately two weeks, though their flight skills develop gradually. Parents feed the fledglings for around three weeks post-fledging.

Chicks can be demanding, sometimes clinging to parents for attention as much as for food. When chicks begin eating independently, separating them can prevent conflicts if the parents start a new clutch.

Responsible Ownership

Diamond Doves are comparatively affordable and easy to maintain with no specialised requirements, making them perfect beginners' birds for those interested in aviculture. Prospective owners should ensure they source birds responsibly, prioritising reputable breeders who prioritise the health and welfare of their birds.

Providing companionship, balanced nutrition, appropriate housing, and veterinary care safeguards their quality of life. Although not the most tactile pets, their fascinating behaviours and affectionate pair bonds offer rewarding observation opportunities for bird lovers.

For those looking to find doves for sale, including Diamond Doves, always verify the source’s credibility to support ethical breeding practices and healthy pet acquisition.

Conclusion

Diamond Doves, the littlest of doves, combine beauty, gentle nature, and relative ease of care in a compact package. Their unique appearance and peaceful demeanour complement their suitability for novice and experienced keepers alike. Providing appropriate diet, safe housing, socialisation, and attentive care will allow these petite birds to thrive and often delight owners with their endearing behaviours and affectionate pair bonds.