• confusedpuppy@lemmy.dbzer0.com
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    3 days ago

    Every year a Mourning Dove couple returns to lay eggs in one of our planters that hangs off the backyard patio railing. It’s slightly covered by the roof overhang so they are protected from rain, direct sunlight and circling prey overhead.

    I usually leave a bowl of water for them nearby the planter and my dad will gently water the soil for the plants with all the birds staying put.

    They generally don’t mind when people are outside on the patio as long as there are no sudden movements or loud noises.

    I’ve noticed they are even more relaxed if I go outside and eat or play some music at a reasonable volume. Surprisingly they the most calm, curious and active when I play any punk music for them.

    They’ve been returning for 5+ years now and I’m looking forward to seeing them again this spring.

    • Zombiepirate@lemmy.world
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      3 days ago

      It can’t be a universal thing for all birds, but budgies feel safer if there’s some ambient noise; it indicates that there isn’t a predator around that needs to be avoided. Silence means danger.

      • confusedpuppy@lemmy.dbzer0.com
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        3 days ago

        That can possibly be it. I experimented with many types of music. Anything harder than punk and they’ll make themselves smaller and lower. I have mostly chill music and they’ll be relaxed but less curious.

        Punk seems to hit the right spot for them to be relaxed and very animated. Also Katy Perry. One day a neighbour had a party and were blasting Katy Perry all day and the momma dove was just vibin’ the whole time.

        • bluesheep@sh.itjust.works
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          2 days ago

          Also Katy Perry. One day a neighbour had a party and were blasting Katy Perry all day and the momma dove was just vibin’ the whole time.

          We all have our guilty pleasures I suppose