White dove
Scientific name: Columba livia domestica
White doves (or release doves) are part of the Columbidae family, of which there are over 300 species.
They are hardy birds that can adapt to almost any environment. Doves can be found in a variety of habitats worldwide, although they prefer woodlands and tropical forests.
The Columbidae family are birds are known for their ability to produce crop milk. This ‘milk’ is secreted from a part of the bird’s digestive tract, called the crop, and regurgitated by the bird to feed its young.
Pigeons and doves usually lay 2 eggs in a clutch. If one of the eggs fails to hatch, then the surviving squab (baby bird) will consume all of the crop milk and grow at a significantly faster rate.
You may see lots of doves in this area of the zoo farm. They nest in a dovecote near the ticket office and enjoy roaming around the zoo, looking for food!
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Size Fact
They usually weigh between 350-400g.
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Food Fact
They eat a variety of grains, seeds, berries and grasses. They will also eat the occasional insect or worm.
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Fun Fact
Doves feature in the biblical story of Noah’s Ark! They are a universal symbol of peace.
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