Houston~~~ we have lift off!

Today was the big day...first two left with the dad. He took them across the yard to the Sweet Memory Bush. He tried several times to coax the last one out but it wasn't until much later that he was ready to join them. This has been a few weeks of wonderment. First Mr & Mrs House Finch built a nest. I left threads for them and they did use them. It wasn't until Mr H took the used nest out that we found many other threads that I had tossed out at the very bottom of the nest. Things were going really well until the two nights that we had very loud crashing thunder and some rain. The nest was in a protected area, but I think the momma left and something happened because she never returned. We checked on them only to find them so huddled, you could not tell that there were 3 babies! Finally the dad did and began to care for the little babies.

He did not stay with them but would appear and stand watch while calling to them. Only after it they responded and there was no danger did he approach the nest to feed them. Since it was only him to do this, it was a lot of back and forth to keep them fed.

I was truly amazed to watch his dedication to them. They remained very still and quiet while they were alone and chatted only when he called to them. As soon as he left they settled down and not a sound or movement came from them. I am happy that they survived the loss of momma but glad that they had such a perfect dad to nurture them. I was sad to see them leave today. Mrs Mourning Dove is still nesting and it may be any day now that her 2 eggs will hatch. Nature can be cruel and hard sometimes, but this was an event with drama that turned out nice. It has been nice having you all follow this event...stay tuned for the next one!