Dove breeding involves the pairing of male and female doves to produce offspring. Typically, doves reach sexual maturity at about six months of age. During the breeding process, the male performs courtship displays to attract a female, which may include cooing and puffing up his feathers. Once a pair has bonded, they will build a nest together, often using twigs and soft materials. After mating, the female lays one or two eggs, which both parents take turns incubating for about two weeks. Once the eggs hatch, the parents feed the chicks a special substance called pigeon milk, produced in their crops. The young doves, or squabs, fledge and become independent after about three weeks.