LPM 222: Diversified poultry production and current concepts in poultry management and marketing [Livestock Production Management (Regional Interest)] (1+1)

DOVES

• This group of birds is classified III the family Columbidae. Although varying in size from the 18cm (7in) Ground Doves to the Crowned Pi'geons, which are nearly 90cm (3ft) in overall size, the pigeons and doves have a fairly uniform appearance. The term 'dove' tends to be reserved for smaller birds, but this does not apply in every instance.
• Most species cat seed, but a few genera subsist largely on fruit. These are rarely encounted in aviculture, but can be easily maintained and bred on a diet of mynah pellets and diced fruit. Although the fruit-eating pigeons and doves tend to be brightly coloured in many cases, the seed-eating species are less striking. Most doves arid pigeons do not require livefood, but some, such as the Tambourine Dove (Terrtur tyrrtpamictria) and the related African Wood Doves, will consume invertebrates. Provide livefoods such mealwonns for these species.
• Few aviculturists specialize in keeping pigeons as a group. 'I'l1ese birds may appear rather sluggish and are normally kept as part of a mixed aviary. The smaller species will live and breed quite contentedly in such surroundings, but larger birds ran create a disturbance, although not harming the other occupants of the aviary. As a general rule, only keep one pair of pigeons or doves in an aviary, especially during the breeding period, as fighting is likely to break out. The following is a selection of species that are often available and that can be housed quite satisfactorily in an aviary with finches.