Advice on how to look after a baby dove whos parents have disappeared?

Question

Advice on how to look after a baby dove whos parents have disappeared?

Answer 1

Leave it alone!

Answer 2

Chances are the parents have been back and you didn't see them

Leave the chick where it is.

Answer 3

If the bird is fully feathered, it is most likely a fledgling and has left the nest on it's own and it's parents are caring for it. It is normal for birds to leave the nest before they can fly.   You need to replace it where you found it..preferably in a scrub or tree so it is relatively safe from predators, and the parents should come back to feed it. If you are too close to them, you may be keeping the parnets from coming as you would be considered a predator.   If it is unfeathered...then look for a nest and if you can find it...replace it into the nest.  Do not worry about your scent being on the chick..birds have a very poorly developed sense of smell and will NOT reject a baby that has been touched.  If you cannot find a nest, get the bird to a local wildlife rehab for it's best chance of survival.  Also, keep in mind, it is illegal for you to try and raise this bird on your own.  Look for a rehab here:

http://www.tc.umn.edu/~devo0028/contactA...