Mourning Dove (sexing)

Question
I have a similar situation.  However, since the young bird is not afraid of people or animals it appears I will need to keep it as well. I do not like the thought of keeping a wild bird in a cage but i really have no choice.  If i turn it loose it will surely die.  My question is how can i determine the sex.  If I need to keep it I would like to get it a mate so it wouldn't be so lonely.  Thanks Bill Porter

Answer
Hi Bill,

It can be difficult to determine the sex of young birds. As it gets older, it might become more apparent. If it happens to lay eggs, then you have a hen! Sometimes if it is a male, it will coo and strut around. The signs might take time to distinguish. Perhaps if you add another dove, the signs will be more apparent! Even placing a mirror in the cage so the dove can view itself might bring out its true self! Sorry for the late response!

Stacie