How to Attract Doves to a Garden

Provide food for the doves. Doves are generally seed eaters, but some in tropical regions may eat fruit. Spread seeds such as sunflowers seeds around on the ground. Smaller seeds are fine, but not larger ones since doves do not husk seeds before eating them. The food being near the ground will attract doves. Ground feeders may also be used.

Condition the birds to return for food before cold weather begins. Feed them throughout the year. Although food is scarce and is needed when things are frozen and insects are dead, birds begin scouting food sources before the cold season begins.

Have an accessible area of small pebbles or rocks. These are used by many birds to aid in digestion of food.

Place an ideal water source for the doves. Doves get dehydrated very easily, and need constant access to clean water. They like water for drinking and bathing. They will even utilize running water. The water must be around 2 inches deep and have sloping sides so that the doves can wade.

Plant things in the garden that attract doves. They like sunflowers, pine and spruce trees, and tall grasses.

Place boxes around the yard or garden for pigeons to nest. They like open nests, so birdhouses will not work. Use a wooden box, old Tupperware or even cardboard. Place at various heights, and give doves several options to choose from.