Tenant in my orchid

[Kollba]

It's not just people who like orchids. This Zebra Dove is nesting in one of my orchid baskets.
It's nice but makes it a little difficult to water.

[camille1585]

Thanks for sharing the photos! Doves are quite good at making their nests in the most bizarre (and inconvenient places).

So, how are you watering the plant?

[Dusty Ol' Man]

The dove will shed water like a duck. Just water as normal.

[Kollba]

Originally Posted by camille1585

Thanks for sharing the photos! Doves are quite good at making their nests in the most bizarre (and inconvenient places).

So, how are you watering the plant?

I spray water very carefully and try not to get the eggs wet. I know they can handle getting wet, but I do not know how long it will take before the dove is back and wet egg will cool down faster.
In a few weeks I will probably be able to water more normally, but by then I guess next dove is nesting in another basket

[Mr.Fakename]

Worse case scenario, that can be converted in free omelettes

[Roberta]

They are cute but annoying, especially when they bend or break growths... The babies fledge fast but they are capable of producing several families in a season... Where I have Catt baskets with empty areas conducive to nests, I have inverted net pots over the bare spots, so that they are encouraged to go elsewhere.

[Dusty Ol' Man]

Originally Posted by Mr.Fakename

Worse case scenario, that can be converted in free omelettes

Doves are game birds. Just sayin'.

[DirtyCoconuts]

Excellent!

I have morning doves that love my lath house. I like them.

[Orchidtinkerer]

very cute,
but try not to get them wet, they can't handle it actually, it can cause bacteria to seep into the egg.

Eggs are covered with a very fine layer to protect them from bacteria but water dissolves this layer and makes them more susceptible to bacterial infection. Water can also seep into the pores of the eggs thus carrying bacteria in with it. If any bacteria enters an egg the egg dies.

[SouthPark]

Very cute indeed!

Totally agree. Hopefully the water ----- or changes in temperature due to the water doesn't kill the cells in the egg. More gradual changes in temperature are usually best.

Watering the orchid in the region that is on the 'other side' of the eggs is probably the best. The orchid can still get its water if watered on the side of the plant on the other side of the eggs. Well away from the eggs.