Why Are Doves Hanging Around My House?

It is common for doves to be a welcome sight in many gardens and backyards due to their gentle cooing and serene presence, but you might be wondering why are doves hanging around my house.

We’re going to explore the factors that may lead to doves visiting your property in this article, including their habits and preferences.

The reasons why doves choose certain locations

Despite their basic survival instincts, doves are attracted to humans for a variety of reasons. Here are some of them:

The sources of food

You may attract doves to your property if you provide a consistent food source, including seeds, grains, and small insects.

• Seed-filled bird feeders
• Agricultural fields nearby spilled grains
• A tree or shrub that bears fruit

Sites for nesting that are safe

If your property provides nesting sites such as trees, shrubs, ledges, or even man-made structures, it’s no surprise doves are frequenting it. Doves prefer nesting locations in which they are protected from predators and the elements.

Sources of water

A bird bath, pond, or even a shallow dish of water can attract doves as any living creature needs water to survive.

Also check: Why does my house smell like sewage?

Doves have many benefits

There are several advantages to having doves around your property, even though some might consider them to be a nuisance:

Controlling pests naturally

Although doves eat seeds, they also feed on pests, which can help control insect populations.

The dispersal of seeds

In the ecosystem, doves aid in seed dispersal, ensuring the survival of a variety of plants through the propagation of seeds.

Therapeutic and aesthetic benefits

Many people find doves therapeutic because of their gentle cooing. Their graceful flight and peaceful demeanor can add aesthetic value to a room.

Here are a few tips on how to make your property less appealing to doves

You can take steps to avoid having doves around if you don’t like them:

Sources of food should be limited

Feed your birds non-attractive seeds, and clean up spilled grains and seeds immediately.

Sites for nesting should be restricted

If you wish to discourage birds from nesting, you can install bird spikes on ledges to prevent them from nesting in your trees and shrubs.

The best landscaping choices for dove-friendly yards

Consider these landscaping choices if you want to attract doves or just learn why they are attracted to your yard:

Seed-bearing plants should be planted

The seeds of sunflowers, millet, and cracked corn are particularly appealing to doves, so planting these in your yard is sure to attract them.

Shelter nesting sites for birds

Providing sheltered nesting sites for doves can be achieved by planting dense shrubbery or trees.

Ensure that there is a source of water

Make sure the bird bath is clean and filled with fresh water to attract doves.

Fact-filled tables

Primary Diet of a DoveSeeds, grains, and occasionally small insectsLifespan of a Dove1–3 years in the wild, up to 10 years in captivityNumber of Eggs Laid per Clutch2 eggs

Doves: An Understanding

Its soothing cooing sound sets it apart from other birds in the pigeon family. It comes in different shades, including white, grey, and brown. It is monogamous, and its nests can be found on buildings, bridges, or power lines. They are frequent visitors to bird feeders and eat primarily seeds and grains.

Reasons Why are doves hanging around my house

Food

A bird feeder or other food source will probably attract doves. Their main food source is seeds and grains.

Water

There is a possibility that your water source, such as a fountain, bird bath, or pool, might be attracting doves.

Shelter

To protect themselves, doves seek shelter. They can find shelter in trees, bushes, or even parts of your home.

Nesting

Your property may be attracting doves if it provides suitable nesting sites in trees or on man-made structures.

Mating

There is a possibility that doves might be around if they’ve found a mate and are nesting. Two doves together indicate that they’ve found a mate.

Dealing with Doves

There are times when doves can be annoying, so here are some tips on how to deal with them:

Prevention

Covering food sources and deterring nesting are two ways to deter them.

Repellents

It is possible to use natural repellents such as essential oils or commercial bird repellent sprays.

Removal

Seek professional assistance or use humane removal methods if necessary.

Potential Issues with Doves

Even though doves can be beneficial, there are also some concerns associated with them:

Property Damage

It is important to clean nests regularly and provide alternative nesting platforms to prevent damage caused by doves.

Health Concerns

Disease-carrying doves must be avoided directly and hygiene must be maintained.

Noise and Disruption

The cooing of babies can sometimes disturb other people. Sound barriers can help in such situations.

What if you dreamed of doves.

It is possible to gain valuable insights into your waking life from dreams about a dove.

“Dreaming of doves represents finding inner balance, healing, peace, and joy by tapping into one’s intuition as well as the emotional language of others,” Kirsten says. Dreaming of a dove may mean that “not all is lost” in a relationship. She explains that you are more likely to see one if you are thinking about something, especially relationships.

Just as in waking life, the color of the dove can also influence the meaning of the dream. To help you understand your dream interpretation, here are some of the meanings associated with different colors of doves:

• When you dream of a white dove, you could be connected to your inner wisdom and on the right path.
• Dreaming of a gray or mourning dove could indicate an upcoming relationship or partnership.
• If the dove appears black or red in your dream, it may indicate that you are going through a transition or change and need some support.

It helps to capture as many details and symbols of your dreams as you can as soon as you wake up in a notebook or dream journal.

As a way of going back into the dream and reconnecting with the symbolism of the dove, Harmon-Luber offers the following technique:

• Take a few deep breaths, and relax while sitting quietly in a place where you won’t be disturbed.
• Ask the dove if it has any messages for you. Think back to your encounter with the dove.
• Listen, see, or sense any wisdom that comes through as you breathe gently.
• Make an offering of reciprocity to nature after you have spent time together with the dove.

You may not receive messages right away, as it takes practice to connect with this realm.

What does it mean when doves come to your house?

As a symbol of love, hope, and peace, doves are also associated with fidelity, long life, and good luck in a lot of cultures. In many cultures, doves represent remembrance of loved ones.