There was a nest in the miller's woods last year, with two white eggs like tame Pigeons', only smaller, and when they hatched I took one of the squabs home for a pet.

It became very tame, but I had to let it fly because it grew too big and dirty,--it was like keeping a Chicken in the house.
"The miller said they were mischievous birds, and ate so many oats that he had to sow his field twice over.

Is that true, Doctor, or do they belong to some good guild ?" "They do not eat insects, though they may do a little work as Weed Warriors, and as they are fond of grain they may have helped themselves to some of the miller's oats; but usually when they feed on the ground they are Gleaners, and they never disturb grain in the ear.

They have many pretty ways, and even though their love-song is sad they are cheerful and happy.

Their 'coo-oo' sounds very gentle in the morning chorus, and though the Dove often nests in open woods and gardens, it seems most at home in a quiet place near water; for it is very fond of drinking and bathing.".