Scaly-Naped Pigeons Fall From Tree

two scaly-naped pigeons perched on branch in enclosure — Ready for release. Courtesy of St. John Wildlife Rehabilitation

two nestling scaly-naped pigeons sitting on paper towels in doors — Photo on arrival. Courtesy of St. John Wildlife Rehabilitation

The following story about scaly-naped pigeons was shared with us by St. John Wildlife Rehabilitation in St. John Island, U.S. Virgin Islands.

In June 2025, limb cutting along a property boundary line led to a hard fall for two nestling scaly-naped pigeons. An effort was made to renest the birds using a container with natural materials but the parents did not return to care for the young birds. That’s when the birds were brought in for care to St. John Wildlife Rehabilitation.

The nestlings arrived dehydrated and underweight — just 50 grams and 70 grams (about 1.8 and 2.5 ounces) and had not been fed for a period of time. After hydration, they were initially fed EmerAid IC Omnivore. Once stabilized, the birds transitioned to a traditional hand-feeding diet enriched with natural whole foods, mimicking what their parents would have provided. As they grew stronger, they were encouraged to self-feed, supported by EmerAid bird vitamins to boost development.

After a month and a half of dedicated care, the young pigeons were successfully released back into the wild, ready to thrive in their natural habitat.