WOW White Dove Release & Display

Frequently Asked Questions

Are they Pigeons or Doves?
We raise and train white rock doves, also known as homing pigeons and racing pigeons (Columba livia). These are the only type of dove that should be released at outdoor functions.

Why can't we purchase White Doves from a pet shop and release them?
Releasing white peace doves, ring neck dove, turtle dove, or love doves is cruel & inhumane because they don't have any homing ability at all. They would become lost instantly upon release and fall easy prey to cats, dogs and hawks. They are very poor flyers and cannot fend for themselves. They can't stand being exposed to cold or wet weather without shelter. They are used to being fed by people and don't know how to find food on their own. They would soon starve if not provided with food.

How are they able to find their way home?
Thier ability to return home from long distances has long eluded scientists. No one is sure how they find their way home but they think it is possibly linked to the Sun’s position and the Earth’s magnetic fields at any given time, although memory may also play a role.

What happens to the birds after they are released?
Once the birds are released it is their nature to want to return home to their mates and offspring. The birds will circle the area, get their bearings and then head home. This is the reason homing pigeons should be used for releases instead of the much smaller, fragile white peace doves.

Can we hold the birds and release them by hand, that way?
We discourage people from holding the birds because untrained hands can injure the birds. However, if it is important to you, we can show you how to hold them. This will require you to take some time before the ceremony to learn the proper handling techniques.

What are the chances the bird will Poop on us or one of our guests?
This has never happened yet, but there are never any guarantees that an accident won't happen. But rest assured all precautions are taken to prevent it. This is why the individual baskets are a good idea. Remember that accidents are a normal body function. There's a greater chance of getting your dress messed up, if you are actually holding the bird.

Can they be released inside?
No, definitely not. The birds are not trained for indoor releases and cannot find the door, to fly out of. They will panic and fly into windows and objects hurting themselves and possibly breaking what they have hit in flight. Not every one is comfortable in a room with a flying, scared, loose bird. Some people could be seriously frightened by a bird released inside. Also it is very difficult to catch a bird inside a building that is afraid for its life.

What if the weather is inclement?
A refund will be issued should we be on location and weather conditions become adverse. Our birds cannot be released under the following conditions: Rain, High winds, Fog, Snow or Ice storms or temperature around the freezing mark.

Do Doves mate for life?
Yes! Doves do mate for life or until one of the partners dies. This lifelong commitment is one of the reasons; doves are a popular symbol for marriage.