Dove releases provide beautiful ways to commemorate a variety of events, allowing people to enjoy watching the white, winged creatures soar into the sky. Perhaps you are considering having doves at an upcoming celebration, or your funeral home or business is looking to add release services to your offerings. No matter what your goals are, learn more about these beautiful birds in the following guide. 

A Guide to Dove Releases

Do the doves return home? 

The majority of white doves released at assorted events are actually homing pigeons. These birds are descended from European rock doves, and like their ancestors, they instinctively return to their home base. Homing pigeons do not require extensive formal training to do this, even if they are 400 to 600 miles away from their origin location. As long as they are raised in the same area and know where they live, their instincts tell them to return, no matter how many times they get released.

What are the differences between doves and homing pigeons? 

Ringneck species are the birds most people think of when they hear the word dove. These birds are typically white or light gray with black semi-collars on the backs of their necks. They are also known as turtledoves and do not have the homing instincts or strong flying skills necessary for release services; they are also often kept as pets. Rock doves, or homing pigeons, are the quintessential birds you see in urban areas, though they actually come in numerous colors, including all-white. 

What events can you use dove releases for?

White doves represent hope, love, dream fulfillment, and new beginnings, making them popular ways to end wedding celebrations. Releases are common at funerals since the animals also symbolize peace, including peace of the soul. 

When they are set free at graduations or reunions, it helps celebrating families maintain mindsets rooted in love and harmony while also promoting well wishes for the future. Doves are always released before the Olympic Games as a symbol of hope for world peace.

Does the weather factor into a release? 

Dove releases work in most weather conditions, even during winter, because there’s little risk of dehydration. Birds do not sweat, and like dogs, pant when they need to cool down. Since they must drink a lot of water to maintain comfortable internal temperatures when it’s hot out, releases during fall, winter, and early spring are ideal.

If you want to release doves at your next event, whether it's for a wedding or funeral, turn to A Sign of Peace White Dove Releases in Erlanger, KY. They serve customers throughout northern Kentucky and Cincinnati, OH. This company uses white homing pigeons to help create memorable events and tributes, and they take pride in their beautiful, clean birds. Call (859) 727-3254 to schedule dove release services, or learn more about them online.