I just found this website and am disturbed at the contents.

Time and time again we are reading about a 'flock' of doves being found dead due to a suspected 'white dove' release. This company is actually referencing the use of 'white doves'.

Here are a couple excerpts from their website:

"The doves will NOT be harmed, as they fly home to where they are born and raised, our lofts! Releasing doves in a way that gets and awesome effect is an art."

"Under certain rare weather conditions a release may be cancelled for the safety of the birds. White doves have difficulty flying in heavy rain, fog, extreme wind or the dark."

This is why people get the idea it's OK to release 'doves' for ceremonial purposes. :no: :For Shame:

Here is the link to the website: Elizabeth's Arizona Birds

I think I'll be giving them a call.

Cindy...I think it's an excillent idea to call and have an educational chat. They may not even realize the possible ramifications of using the word dove, rather than pigeon.

Robin - I don't know anything about ringneck doves so I wonder why you cannot let them loose? Sorry for my ignorance...

Robin - I found the answer myself and a good link:

"The White Dove is often thought of as a separate species but it is actually perhaps the most common color mutation of the Ringneck Dove (Streptopelia risoria). This bird is often confused with the domestic white homing pigeon which is used to release at special occasions (weddings, anniversaries, etc.). This bird does not have the homing instinct and should not be released."

Dovepage.com

Here's the great information Carol posted too, so now you are armed with a lot of information.

http://www.pigeonangels.com/chitter-chatter-f19/release-white-doves-responsibly-photos-compare-a-pigeon-with-a-dove-t1435.htm

Rant away Jenn...I hear ya'.