Morning Dove

I've always been fascinated by the gentle presence of mourning doves in my garden. They're such peaceful visitors, and if you're like me, you're probably wondering how to attract more of them and what they actually like to eat! After a bit of observation and trying different things, I've learned some valuable tips that I'm excited to share with you. One of the most common questions I hear is, 'What kind of seeds do mourning doves like?' Well, these lovely birds are primarily ground feeders, meaning they prefer to forage for seeds on the ground rather than from hanging feeders. Their diet mainly consists of seeds, so offering the right mix is crucial. Do Mourning Doves Like Safflower Seeds? Absolutely! Safflower seeds are a fantastic choice for mourning doves. What I love about safflower is that squirrels and larger, more aggressive birds often don't enjoy them, which means more for our gentle doves! It's a great way to ensure the food you put out is actually consumed by your target visitors. I've personally seen them eagerly peck away at safflower left on my low platform feeder. What Else Do Doves Eat? My Top Seed Picks: While safflower is good, it's not their only favorite. If you want to really attract mourning doves, here are a few other seeds they absolutely adore: White Proso Millet: This is probably their number one favorite. It's small, easy for them to swallow, and they can't get enough of it. I always make sure this is a primary component of my seed mix. Cracked Corn: Another excellent choice. Doves enjoy the larger pieces, and it's quite affordable. Black Oil Sunflower Seeds (BOSS): While they can manage whole BOSS, cracked or de-shelled sunflower seeds are even better for them. They're rich in oil and provide great energy. Avoid Nyjer Seed: This tiny seed is usually for finches and is too small for a mourning dove's beak to handle effectively. Best Way to Feed Mourning Doves & Attract Them: Since mourning doves are ground feeders, the best way to feed mourning doves is by scattering seeds directly on a clear, open patch of ground. This mimics their natural foraging behavior. However, if you prefer feeders, a low platform feeder or a tray feeder works wonderfully. These feeders allow them to stand comfortably while eating, unlike hanging tube or hopper feeders, which they find awkward. Beyond just food, here are a few other tips to help you attract mourning doves to your yard: Provide Water: A shallow bird bath is an absolute magnet for doves. They need a reliable water source for drinking and bathing, especially in warmer months. Offer Shelter: While they prefer open feeding areas, having some low shrubs or trees nearby provides them with a sense of security and a place to perch or escape if they feel threatened. Keep it Clean: Regularly clean your feeding areas and feeders to prevent mold and bacteria, which can harm birds. Patience is Key: It might take a little time for them to discover your offerings, but once they do, they'll become regular visitors. I've found that by combining a good seed mix, especially with millet and safflower, and offering it in a way that suits their natural habits, my garden has become a favorite spot for these beautiful birds. It's truly a joy to watch them!