The release of doves at funerals has become a poignant tradition, symbolizing peace, remembrance, and the spiritual ascent of a loved one. Many people witness this custom, yet a common question often arises regarding the fate of these birds after they fly away.
The Birds Released
The birds typically released during memorial services are not true doves, but rather white homing pigeons. These birds are a domesticated variety of the rock pigeon, specifically bred for their exceptional navigational abilities. They are generally larger and more robust than wild doves, possessing a strong, muscular build suited for long flights. These pigeons are accustomed to human interaction and care, having been raised in lofts and fed by humans.
Their pure white plumage is a result of selective breeding. This specific breed is chosen for its reliability in returning to its home loft. These pigeons are dependent on human provision for their well-being.
The Homing Instinct
Homing pigeons possess an innate ability to navigate and return to their home loft from unfamiliar locations. This “homing instinct” is a complex interplay of various sensory cues and learned behaviors. They utilize the Earth’s magnetic field as a compass, to orient themselves. The sun’s position in the sky also serves as a primary navigational tool, to maintain a consistent direction throughout the day.
As they mature and are trained, these pigeons learn to recognize topographical features and landmarks over vast distances. They can also detect low-frequency sounds, known as infrasound, which provides navigational information. Training begins with short flights around the loft, gradually increasing in distance as the birds develop their navigational skills and muscle memory. This process refines their natural abilities, ensuring they can reliably find their way back.
Responsible Release Practices
The safe return of released pigeons depends on responsible release practices, typically managed by specialized companies. These companies prioritize the welfare of their birds, ensuring they are well-cared for and trained for homing. Reputable providers use only white homing pigeons. They also consider factors such as weather conditions and the distance from the home loft, releasing birds only when safe return is probable.
Releasing untrained birds or true doves, which lack the homing instinct and conditioning, can have detrimental outcomes. Such birds are vulnerable to predators, starvation, or exposure. When considering a release, it is important to inquire about the birds’ origin, their training regimen, and the maximum safe release distance. These questions help ensure the birds released are the specialized homing pigeons capable of a safe journey back to their loft.