On The Wings Of Love: About Rock Doves

The strain of birds used for ceremonial releases are known as rock doves and are a part of the homing pigeon family. We breed and train our own birds at Euro-Choice Lofts from original birds obtained from quality breeders in Holland. Our all white strain along with multi-colored ones are bred for their unique ability to return to their nests from long distances and are the only type of dove known to possess this ability.

They are not the ring neck doves such as pictured on Valentine cards. Those birds are a smaller breed and do not possess the homing instinct of the rock dove and to release them in such a manner from other then a short distance would be to condemn them to a wild environment in which they could not survive.

Our beautiful rock doves are strong flyers and maintained under sanitary conditions that assure their health and well being. They are loyal mates for life and ideal to represent a new union such as a marriage or new business partnership. Their peaceful coexistence within their lofts and the caring cooperative way in which they tend to all of the young once they leave their original nest has proven them to possess a true sense of community and commitment. Our large flocks of two hundred plus doves are inoculated on a yearly basis against disease. Many hours are spent, on a daily basis, cleaning, feeding and training the birds. During this time the birds are closely inspected against any potential problem that may arise so as to assure the well-being of the entire flock.

The trained pure bred birds are strong and intelligent. They can travel six hundred air miles or more in one day averaging fifty five miles per hour depending on weather conditions. The welfare of the birds is our top priority. To assure their welfare, all releases must take place at a time that will allow them to return to their home base before dark.

Each and every dove represents a large investment of love, time and money on our part. Once this is understood we have no doubt our clients will appreciate why the safety of the doves must remain our top priority. This in no way takes away from our true desire to provide a service that is memorable to those who wish to add a symbolic touch to their special occasion.