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the beginning of recorded history white doves have been
a symbol of purity, holiness, fidelity, spirituality,
unity, innocence and gentleness. They have been illustrated
in art, and recorded in literature. An old world custom
in Europe and in the South Seas for many years was to
release doves at weddings to symbolize blessings, peace,
love and prosperity for a married couple. White doves
play a key role in life's celebrations because of the
beauty and symbolism associated with them.
The
doves we use are specialty white homing pigeons. The real
name for a common pigeon is "Rock Dove", because
they originated in the cliffs of Ireland where they made
their nests in the rocks. The doves have been breed for
many generations for their ability to home from distances
of up to 600 miles.
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Many
people ask, "What happens
to the birds after they are
released?" A miracle
of nature enables them to
find their way home from great
distances. Keen senses of
hearing, smell, sight, and
the ability to read magnetic
fields are thought to be some
of the tools they use to complete
their successful journey home.
The
birds are in no way harmed
-- in fact, they are capable
of flying much farther than
we are willing to send them.
Since their health, happiness,
and safety are our foremost
concerns, their flights are
limited to around 50 miles.
A release is always scheduled
early enough to allow them
to get home, fed, and safely
on there perches before sunset.
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