Behind the Scenes with Our Doves: Summer Life.
Life Beyond the Release
Most people meet our doves at meaningful events: a funeral, memorial or wedding, when they rise into the sky carrying love and emotion. But that moment only happens because of what goes on every day behind the scenes.
Each morning starts in the loft. My dad and I check every bird — watching their posture, movement, energy and appetite. Their water is refreshed, their feed is topped up, and their space is cleaned. It’s not just a routine. It’s how we make sure each dove is content, settled and in good condition. This is their home, and we treat it that way.
Welcoming New Life
Summer brings warmth, longer days, and often, baby doves.
Right now, there are six youngsters in the nest. Two of them are nearly ready to move into our dedicated young bird loft, where they’ll begin exploring the world beyond home.
We keep the younger birds separate from the older ones for a reason. They need time and space to build their strength. Older doves tend to stay close to home — and if kept together, the babies would copy them, missing the chance to “range” properly. Ranging is when the young birds start exploring further afield. It’s an important part of helping them learn where home is, how to fly with confidence, and how to handle new surroundings.
Just like people, every bird develops at its own pace. We give them the freedom to do that safely.
Knowing Our Birds — Even Through the Poop
Good bird care isn’t always picture-perfect. One of the most important signs of a healthy dove? Their poop.
Yes, really.
As unglamorous as it sounds, we check it every day. The colour, texture and frequency can tell us a lot — from hydration levels to how well they’re digesting their food. It’s not the kind of thing that makes it into the photo gallery, but it's one of the best early indicators if something’s off.
We often say: a good poop means a happy bird. It might not be the most elegant part of the job, but it’s absolutely essential — and after a while, you get oddly proud of it.
A Flight Built On Trust
When you see a dove release, whether at a funeral, memorial or wedding. It might look like a simple, beautiful gesture but it’s built on care, observation, and consistency.
From their very first days in the nest, through flight training, to the moment they leave the basket in someone’s hands, each bird is supported every step of the way. That’s why they’re calm in busy settings. That’s why they circle confidently. And that’s why we trust them to do what they do best: carry meaning for others.
You’re not just booking a dove. You’re choosing a living symbol that has been raised with attention, patience and respect. That’s what makes the difference and it’s something we’ll never compromise on.
Thinking about a dove release for a funeral, memorial or wedding?
You can book online at www.actsofdove.com/booking or message me directly with any questions.