A dove release is a beautiful and meaningful addition to any celebration, from weddings to graduations. If you’re planning one for an event, you’ll likely have a lot of questions about what to expect and how to prepare for a release. See a few of the most common questions below to help you plan.

Dove Release FAQ

Can we release the birds?

The release is not just limited to the handlers. You can hold the doves for a photo opportunity before releasing them. If you want the handlers to release them, however, they can do that as well.

What time of day should we plan the release?

The homing doves use the sun to guide themselves back home, so this puts some restrictions on when you can hold your release. For their safety, your bird release should occur at least an hour before sunset. You may need more time depending on how far you are from their home loft.

What happens after the release? 

The doves usually circle the area overhead a few times in a group, which is beautiful to watch and a fantastic photo opportunity. They will then head directly home for food and rest. 

Are the doves clean?

The birds are excellent self-preeners, so they will be soft and clean to the touch. Doves are animals, so there’s no guarantee that they will not defecate in the area after they have been released. However, this is a very rare occurrence, as your handler will coordinate their feeding schedule to minimize the chances.

Can we use any white doves? 

While birds do have a homing instinct, they are not automatically inclined toward a specific home base. They must be trained by a professional to fly home after release. As a result, you should never buy birds at your local pet store for a dove release, as they’ll get lost and are not equipped to fend for themselves in the wild.

If you’re planning a dove release, work with a professional company that takes excellent care of their birds. A Sign of Peace White Dove Releases creates one-of-a-kind events with their well-loved birds in Erlanger, KY, and the surrounding areas. For a special touch to your next ceremony or celebration, contact them online or at (859) 727-3254 to schedule your event.