Pigeons, commonly known as rock doves, are fascinating birds that have been domesticated for centuries. If you are a pigeon lover or have recently found a pigeon nest, you may be wondering about their incubation period. In this blog post, we will answer your questions about how long a pigeon’s incubation lasts and provide you with valuable insights into the nesting process.

What is Incubation?

Incubation refers to the period during which birds sit on their eggs to provide the necessary warmth and humidity required for the development of the embryo inside the egg. During this time, the parent birds carefully regulate the temperature and turn the eggs periodically to ensure even heating.

Incubation Period of Pigeons

The incubation period of pigeons typically lasts between 17 to 19 days. However, it is essential to note that several factors can influence the duration of incubation, including environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity.

Factors Affecting Incubation Period

The following factors can affect the duration of incubation in pigeons:

  • Environmental Conditions: Pigeons generally prefer warmer temperatures for successful incubation. If the weather is colder, the incubation period may stretch slightly longer.
  • Number of Eggs: The number of eggs in the nest can play a role in the duration of incubation. Larger clutches may require slightly more time for the parent birds to attend to each egg adequately.
  • Inexperienced Birds: Young or inexperienced pigeon parents may take a bit longer to figure out proper incubation techniques, which can extend the incubation period.

Parental Care during Incubation

Pigeon parents share the responsibility of incubation. Both the male and female take turns sitting on the eggs, usually in shifts lasting a few hours. This shared incubation duty allows each parent to have necessary breaks for feeding and preening.

What Happens After Incubation?

After the incubation period, the eggs hatch, and squabs (baby pigeons) emerge. At this stage, the parents continue to provide warmth and protection to the newborns. The squabs are entirely dependent on their parents for food and care until they are old enough to leave the nest, which typically takes around four weeks.

In Conclusion

Pigeons have a relatively short incubation period lasting between 17 to 19 days. However, several factors, such as environmental conditions and the number of eggs, can influence the duration. During this period, pigeon parents meticulously maintain the ideal temperature for their eggs’ development. Once the eggs hatch, the parents continue to nurture their squabs until they are ready for independent life. Keep in mind that every pigeon pair and nest is unique, so variations in the incubation period may occur. Happy pigeon watching!

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