Weaning an Orphaned Dove

Question
Hi, I rescued a baby dove 10 days ago -it was a nestling at the time and a cat had killed the parents sadly. The baby has been triving on formula feedings 4 times a day, growing and gaining weight nicely. The baby has also started taking short flights, so it will soon be able to be released, but I can't wean it so the release is no where in sight. My question is this, the baby is now a fledgeling and is pecking at seed(enriched finch and parakeet seed) but is showing little aptitude to wantig to wean. What can I do to help this baby along?? I tried the seed in a bottle with a screen with a small hole and placing the birds beak into the whole, sadly no go with that-no interest at all. They baby seesm intersted in seed pecking alot and attempting pick ups, just not really well yet. Any advice would be helpful.

Answer
Hello Debbie and thank you for your post.
Let me start by saying that it is wonderful that you have taken over the "parenting" for this little guy/gal.
If I am not mistaken (and I could be wrong), doves are not ready to be weaned until about 12-14 weeks of age.
You'll just have to give him/her a little more time before weaning, may a week or two, and try again.
Also, weaning a bird is not something that can be done over night.  This is a process that usually takes a few weeks after the bird is ready to be weaned.
(S)He will get better at the pick ups with time, but it does just take time.  It sounds like you are doing a wonderful job with this baby so far.  Kudos to you for this!

Good luck and God Bless.
Dianna