Release Policy
The Ceremonial Doves we utilize for services are living animals, because the care and safety of the birds are our top priority, we have the following policies that we feel will keep our team out of harms way after your release. As with all animals we can not gurantee that the birds will preform exactly as expected though a handler will always be present to assist. We cannot accept any responsibility for any droppings that may occur, these are unavoidable though we are vigilant of this.
- We will ONLY release well trained birds outdoors during daylight hours at distances not to exceed 610 miles.
- We will NOT ship any birds to you for a "self-release".
- We will arrive at the release site NO LATTER then 30 minutes prior to the time that the event is to begin to set up and to give instructions to those wanting a hand releasing if appropriate.
- We WILL be dressed in appropriate clothing for the event.
- ALL of our birds are permanently identified with bands issued by, and registered to us by the American Racing Pigeon Union (AU).
- Our birds may be released any day of the week from sunrise to late afternoon at times that allow them to safely return home.
- Certain weather conditions make it unsafe to release birds. These conditions may include, but are not limited to, rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and fog. During such conditions, the birds WILL NOT be released.
Cancellations
Timber Lofts, may cancel any release at any time. Events that may lead to a cancellation include, but are not limited to, inclement weather if known in advance "Acts of God" and accidents that may occur resulting in loss of stock if the event is booked several months in advance. If this should occur, a full refund will be provided.
Fee's
We do require a $50 Non-Refundable Deposit to schedule your event. Your balance will need to be paid 2 weeks prior to the event date. Should any release be delayed beyond the scheduled time allowed (2 Hours), we reserve the right to charge a fee of $25.00 for each additional 30 minute interval. If we are onsite with the birds and the release has been delayed due to conditions not within our control, is not weather related, but is due to the actual event itself, its sponsors, agents or event participants, and the delay would prevent the birds from returning home before sunset, we have the right to cancel the release and deny any refund.
FAQ's
Q: Where do the doves go after they are released?
A: The Doves released at your Ceremony will fly back to their Loft in Ocala, FL. The Loft entrance for the birds is open for them to go inside immediately upon their arrival. An entrance and exit platform is installed for the team to ingress and egress. In the Loft, each bird has their own perch where they spend the night and rest during the day. They know that this is where they receive nourishment and where they want to be. This is the home that they love, their perch, and nest box. In the breeding season couples occupy the nest boxes that are located in the loft. They are placed on a special diet prior to release and their main objective is to return home. Our Doves that are utilized for Release's are experienced and have been thoroughly trained and cared for making them seasoned athletes.
Q: How do the birds know how to get back to the loft?
A: After the Doves are Released, a miracle of nature takes place that enables them to find their way back home from great distances. They possess a keen sense of smell and sight. They have also the ability to read magnetic fields and see polarized and ultra violet light waves. These are thought to be just some of the senses they use to complete their journey. When the birds first begin to fly they are taken to ever increasing distances in all directions and orientate themselves to travel routes home. Not all birds possess this homing ability. The birds here at Timber Lofts are bred from racing stock which have been developed for many years and thus possess the skills and stamina to return home safely from great distances. They are truly one of Natures greatest athletes.