I think I mentioned before that, when I rescued Helen and Paris, the shelter was poorly-informed about doves, they were both in poor condition, and Helen was very ill. She's recovering very quickly now, and putting on weight (thank you for the millet suggestions!). I also mentioned in my last post that Paris had been expressing quite a lot of aggression towards her, and I was concerned for her health?

Today, for the first time since I'd purchased her, she shook her feathers out, stretched her neck, and made a rather croakish and gargly attempt at a coo.

Or, wait. I should say HE shook HIS feathers out. The females never coo!

On the one hand, I'm thrilled that my bird is healthy enough to start behaving the way he should. On the other, I'm concerned about future aggression/fighting on both their parts. They do still seem affectionate, and in spite of his aggression Paris is still very protective of Helen. I was also looking forward to and making preparations for a nesting pair. I adore them both, and I'm just not sure what to do about this comical development.