Dove
Conditions of detention
Doves require a spacious and secure aviary or cage that allows them to fly and exercise. The environment should be well-ventilated and protected from extreme weather conditions. Doves enjoy flying, so providing ample space is essential for their well-being.
Useful Fact: Doves are social birds that can be kept in pairs or small groups. They thrive in environments where they can interact with other doves and their human caregivers.
Nutrition and diet
A balanced diet for doves includes high-quality seeds, grains, and legumes. Doves also benefit from fresh fruits and vegetables to provide essential vitamins and minerals. Grit and calcium supplements are important for aiding digestion and supporting bone health.
Useful Fact: Ensure that doves have access to clean, fresh water at all times, as they are prone to dehydration due to their active nature.
Health
Doves are generally hardy birds but can be susceptible to certain health issues such as respiratory infections, parasites, and nutritional deficiencies. Regular health checks and maintaining a clean environment are essential for preventing diseases.
Useful Fact: Doves can be vaccinated against certain diseases, such as pigeon pox and paramyxovirus, to help protect your flock.
Grooming and care
Doves keep themselves clean through regular preening and enjoy bathing. Providing a shallow dish of water for bathing or misting them lightly with water can help maintain healthy feathers.
Useful Fact: Keeping the aviary or cage clean and free from droppings and debris is important for preventing bacterial and fungal infections.
Education and training
While doves are not typically trained to perform tricks, they can become accustomed to their owner’s presence and routines. Handling should be gentle and consistent to build trust.
Useful Fact: Doves can recognize their caregivers and respond to gentle handling and interaction, which can help strengthen the bond between you and your birds.
Toys and entertainment
Doves do not typically play with toys like parrots, but they enjoy exploring their environment and foraging for food. Providing different textures and surfaces for them to interact with can help keep them engaged.
Useful Fact: Allowing doves to fly freely in a secure environment can provide the mental and physical stimulation they need.
Safety
Ensure that the aviary or cage is secure from predators such as cats, hawks, and rodents. Proper fencing and netting can help protect doves from potential threats.
Useful Fact: Avoid using toxic materials in and around the aviary, such as lead-based paints, which can be harmful if ingested.
Accessories
Doves require nesting boxes or platforms for breeding and resting. Providing perches of varying sizes and materials can help maintain foot health.
Useful Fact: Nesting materials such as straw, twigs, and leaves should be provided to encourage natural nesting behaviors.
Socialization
Doves are social birds and thrive in flocks. They form strong pair bonds and enjoy interacting with other doves and their human caregivers.
Useful Fact: Spending time observing and interacting with your doves can help build trust and strengthen your bond with them.
Travel and Transportation
When traveling with doves, use a secure and well-ventilated travel carrier. Ensure that the carrier is lined with soft material to provide comfort during transport.
Useful Fact: Acclimating doves to the travel carrier before trips can help reduce stress and anxiety during transport.
Behavior and psychology
Doves exhibit a range of behaviors that indicate their mood and health. Understanding their body language and vocalizations can help you care for them more effectively.
Useful Fact: Doves coo and bow as part of their courtship and social interactions, and these behaviors can indicate contentment and social bonding
Legal aspects
In most areas, there are few legal restrictions on keeping doves, but it is important to ensure compliance with local regulations regarding aviary construction and dove release events.
Useful Fact: Always check local regulations to ensure compliance with laws regarding dove keeping and breeding, as some areas may have specific requirements.
