Explaining WDRP Policy: Releasing Only Rock Doves

ONLY CAREFULLY TRAINED, PERMANENTLY BANDED, PURE WHITE HOMING PIGEONS should ever be released, and only within the area and mileage limits of their training/service area. Yes, homing pigeons "home," but only with thorough and careful training. They have the ability, the trainers must help them hone it, and properly condition them for flights of length.

Pure white ringneck doves are smaller than the homing pigeon. The ringneck doves are commonly found for sale in pet stores, but only as pets. To release a ringneck dove into the wild would be sentencing it to certain death. The ringnecks are not able to fend for themselves against predators, do not fly well at all after having been caged, and are not able to find enough food and water to sustain them long. It is tragic and highly unethical to release this type of dove, or any other bird that is untrained and unable to return to its home safely. This is hardly the outcome a person of conscience would desire, especially after using the dove as a symbol of peace, love, hope, fidelity and the future of the newlyweds.