The Simple Life of a Dove

Jerry was a common rock dove who lived in a small wooded area near a suburban neighborhood. As a dove, his life followed a simple but fulfilling routine. Each day held the familiar tasks of finding food, socializing with other doves, and looking for a mate.

When the sun rose in the morning, Jerry would wake up in the tree where he roosted overnight. He would take a moment to preen his feathers, ensuring they were smooth and sleek. A well-groomed appearance was important for attracting a mate. Once his feathers were in order, it was time to set out in search of breakfast.

Jerry flew down to the ground where he joined other doves scouring the grass for seeds to eat. He primarily ate small grains and grasses that had fallen from trees or been left behind by other birds. Pecking at the ground, Jerry's sharp beak made quick work of collecting enough seeds to fuel his day.

After eating, Jerry spent time socializing with the other doves in the area. They cooed and preened one another's feathers, strengthening social bonds. As a social bird, Jerry enjoyed this daily interaction with his flock. It helped him feel secure and connected to the other doves.

With a full stomach and grooming session out of the way, Jerry began searching for a mate. He strutted around with his chest puffed out, showing off his gray and white feathers to any females watching. If a receptive female was interested, Jerry would perform a courtship display of bowing, cooing, and fluttering his wings to woo her.

If Jerry was successful in attracting a mate, the next step would be finding a suitable nesting location. He inspected various tree hollows, crevices, and nooks, looking for a safe spot high off the ground. Once an acceptable spot was chosen, Jerry and his new mate got to work constructing their nest.

A Poem for Dove Birds

Verse 1

Deep in the forest green, a dove was born

With soft white feathers and a gentle form

From the first crack of dawn to dusk's return

He learned to fly and find seeds to earn

His parents taught him lessons every day

To listen for predators and soar away

To find safe shelter at night from storms and fray

And live a peaceful life without dismay

Verse 2

As Dove grew strong with each passing year

The forest was his home, no need for fear

He knew each tree and spot to gather near

When other birds would flock to feed and cheer

But one harsh winter the snow piled high

The seeds were buried and the dove began to cry

His parents had gone and he was alone to try

To find enough food so he wouldn't die

Verse 3

Through blinding snow, Dove took to the wing

Seeking any spot that seeds might bring

Exhausted and starving, he could do nothing

Except keep flying on the cold wind string

At last in a clearing, a sight for sore eyes

A flock of doves had found a rare surprise

Beneath the snow a patch of ground lies

With seeds and berries, a feast to suffice

Verse 4

The flock took Dove in with kindness and care

They shared their bounty, no dove left to spare

Together they weathered the winter's harsh fare

Bonded as a family with no need for fear

When spring finally came with the warm sun's glow

The snow disappeared and new growth began to show

Dove stayed with his flock as seasons would flow

Finding joy and purpose, with birds he could know

Verse 5

Now an old dove, Dove looks back on his life

The lessons of parents, the winter's long strife

Finding fellowship to ease all life's strife

Guides the young doves who will take wing in flight

This dove's story, though simply be

A message of hope and community

When faced with life's storms, as wild as the sea

Together is best, for you and for me