Protected Dove Hatches At The Splash In Golden

GOLDEN, CO – Coloradans love their wildlife, even when it decides to move into local human habitation. Such is the case in Golden, where a mother Mourning Dove, (a protected species under the Federal Migratory Bird Act) made her nest in the plastic lane line floaters at Golden's water park, The Splash.

Now the nest has a hatchling, nicknamed "Green" by staffers. The city guesses it will take up to two weeks for the baby bird to fledge and fly away from the water park.

"The nest couldn't be moved without a permit from the Division of Wildlife, so we cordoned it off with caution tape to protect mama bird and her eggs until they hatched," the city said in a statement. "We'll enjoy this little one's company for a little while longer."

Even though mourning doves are quite common, and a favorite among U.S. hunters, who will soon be able to shoot them with a permit fromColorado Parks and Wildlife, the staff at The Splash are making the birds welcome until they fly away.

Related: The Splash Opens for the Summer At Fossil Trace

Image via City of Golden