Q: Are they really doves or pigeons?

A: We use pure white racing pigeons, which are directly descended from rock doves. Racing pigeon are natural homing birds and are able to fly great distances, whereas doves cannot fly well and are more likely to remain at the release site unable to navigate their way home.

Q: How many white doves make up a release?

A: Typically we release singles or pairs of doves. However, we can currently release upto 18 birds.

Q: What happens to the birds after they are released?

A: These doves usually circle above the release site, while they get their bearings, before flying back to their loft. The doves have been specially trained and are able to find their way home, often travelling great distances.

Q: How far can they fly?

A: The doves are trained to fly over distances of over several hundred miles. The birds are trained by very experienced handlers over a long period. While we normally restrict our service to within 20 miles of the loft, we will consider further distances if suitable.

Q: How and when are the doves released?

A: The birds are usually released from baskets. Birds can be released at any time during your event, provided there will be enough daylight for them to find their way home. Typically this means release should be at least two hours before dusk.

Q: Are there any restrictions for the venue of release?

A: The doves can be released just about anywhere. Churches, gardens and parks are often good choices, as there is more space to watch the birds fly. However, the only real restriction is that releases shouldn't be within an enclosed area and without any adverse environmental hazards (e.g. power lines) nearby. We always check with the appropriate persons that there is no objection to the release of the birds.

Q: How late can doves be released?

A: The doves must have enough daylight to be able to fly home. We prefer to release the birds at least two hours before dusk.

Q: Does the weather affect doves releases?

A: Yes. If the weather conditions are very bad we will not release the doves for their own safety. In the event of heavy rain, high winds, storm, fog or blizzard we will cancel the release and offer a full refund.

Q: Will the doves make a mess on me or my guests?

A: It's very unlikely for two reasons. First, we monitor their feeding prior to release. Secondly, it is almost impossible as doves like to perch before they mess. When they are released, their instinct is to fly home, there is little else on their minds.  Our birds are also fed special diet prior to release and it is very unlikely that they will foul on release but no responsibility will be taken for any damage to clothing

Q: How do the doves get to the venue?

A: The birds are transported to the venue in special approved pigeon carriers by an experienced handler.

Q: At what point during the occasion should the birds be released?

A: This is entirely up to you! There can be a lot of creativity in the timing and location of your dove release. We will endeavour to accomodate your ideas. The most popular way to release your doves is after the vows and during your official photographs.

Q: Can I borrow some doves?

A: No. All birds are specially bred and trained for this work by very experienced pigeon handlers. All releases must be performed under the supervision of our handlers.

Q: How do I find out more?

A: Click on contact us and simply email your questions to us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

 

Pure Love Doves - White Dove Release -  Dorset

MOBILE:07851 100 051 EMAIL: mail@purelovedoves.com