Dove

Doves can be found almost everywhere on the planet, and there are hundreds of different species. However, only a few dove species are commonly available as pets, with the diamond dove and the ring-necked dove being the most popular.

Doves require different housing than parrots. Doves, unlike parrots, cannot climb the cage bars; instead, they move around by flying back and forth, so a wide cage is essential. Provide a variety of perch styles and diameters to encourage good foot health in your dove. Bathing opportunities are also required for doves.

Doves, on the whole, are hands-off pets. Forcing interaction may result in the bird being terrified or, worse, in a broken wing. Some doves, on the other hand, can be trained by hand. Doves are quite social with their peers and can become accustomed to taking food from their hands.

Doves require grit in their diet because they eat their seeds whole, unlike parrots. Provide a calcium supplement as well as various types of grit, especially during breeding. Though it may be tempting to breed these birds all year, doing so will leave them exhausted and weakened. Most aviculturists recommend resting them for a few months between clutches. Ring-necked doves can live for more than ten years if properly cared for.