Estrogen-progesterone regulation of nest-building and incubation behavior in ovariectomized ring doves (Streptopelia risoria)

The role of ovarian hormones in the induction of nest-building (tucking) and incubation behavior in female doves (Streptopelia risoria) was determined by systemic injections of estrogen, or progesterione, or estrogen combined with progesterone, or oil in reproductively experienced ovariectomized females. Combined estrogen and progesterone treatment was the most effective hormone regimen for eliciting both behavior patterns in females and also facilitated these behaviors in their untreated mates. Differences in role of the gonadal progesterone in male and female doves were discussed.