Frequently Asked Questions
Are they pigeons, or are they doves?
The white birds used at special event releases are actual white homing pigeons. They are the only type of white bird that should be used in a release to ensure the birds’ safety. Any other type of bird would most likely get lost and/or die in the wild. The dove and white homing pigeon are related and look very similar though.
My event is scheduled for after dark, is that too late?
How late the birds should be released depends on the distance of the event and the home loft location. Well trained birds should be given adequate time to return home before darkness. The birds should not be released in the dark.
The birds should never be released in heavy rain, fog, snow or other severe weather. We will make every effort to perform the dove release as long as it is safe for the birds. We will have this stipulation mentioned in our contract.
Well trained white homing pigeon have a range of anywhere between 100 to 600 miles, depending on many variable factors such as weather, stock quality and training… The key is well trained, quality birds. Releases within 50 miles are generally safe provided good birds are used. Beware of anyone offering to ship birds to you for self -release! A true pigeon fancier would never allow this. It puts our birds in a dangerous situation, and we care too much about them to allow it.
Who will do the releasing?
The bride and groom or a loved one often release the birds for symbolic reasons, but every event is supervised and coordinated in a reliable manner by a professional handler, appropriately dressed and on time for the occasion. If the customer does not wish to release the birds themselves then we will do the releasing.