Lost Dove
Do you have a lost white dove hanging around?
Here are some questions and considerations to keep in mind:
Does the dove have a band?
If the dove is banded, there is a possibility that you can trace the information the band to the dove’s owner. This involves catching the bird, though. The bird may have a custom-order band already which would include the owner's name and contact information. If so, then it's simply a matter of calling the owner and getting in touch with them to discuss how to arrange a meeting to return the bird.
There are a number of band manufacturers that make pigeon bands. The following is a list of the most common ones in North America:
CU or CRPU = CANADIAN PIGEON UNION
IPB = INDEPENDENT PIGEON BREEDERS (Sold by Foy’s Pigeon Supplies)
There are various resources online on how to read a bird’s band. A simple Google search should set you on the right track. Once you have caught the bird and can read the information on the band, go ahead and visit the websites linked above for specific instructions on how to look for the owner.
If the dove doesn't have a band, unfortunately, there isn't much anyone can do. Many people's first response is to put out some bird seed and water for the poor bird. However, that may not always be the best course of action. The dove may simply be catching a break while on its way. If so, by putting out food and water more than once, you are encouraging it to stick around, and is akin to putting out food for a stray kitten that follows you home. If the dove is injured, then that's a different story and in that case, use your best judgment on what to do.
Sometimes, a white dove doesn't belong to a white dove release business. White doves occasionally appear in the wild. It is quite possible that a mated pair of random colors will have an offspring that does not resemble the parents at all. In this case, it’s basically a white bird that ended up close by for whatever reason. The bird will most likely return to its flock in the near future.
Dove Rescue
If the bird is unbanded and all else fails, here’s a map that may be helpful. Please practice due diligence in evaluating any rescue facility.
