Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

On October 7th 2009, an Emerald Dove chick was hatched inside the Taipei Zoo Bird World. Mama dove and Papa dove took turns safeguarding the practically naked baby, whose eyes have yet to open.

Emerald Doves are entirely jade green, an excellent base color for camouflage. For this reason, Taipei Zoo was able to observe parenting in action. The parents selected to nest in a palmetto plant less than 2 meters away from the walkway, constructed with just a few branches and twigs. A huge number of photo-enthused bird lovers were immediately attracted. Perhaps all the loving attentions were a bit “overwhelming” and mom and pop soon moved with the chick to a bush that offered more privacy about a week later.