Common Garden Doves

Java Doves

These doves are well-known for being used by magicians in their magic tricks. However, they are not suitable for homing in a dovecote

Garden Doves

These white birds, which lack a fantail, are ideal for an aviary or dovecote. They are most often used for weddings

Exhibition Doves

These birds have large and rigid tails, which restrict their ability to fly well. Therefore, they are not suitable for dovecotes

Garden Fantail

Often described as having a spade like tail. They are ideal for keeping in a dovecote or aviary.

Full Fantails

This variety falls between the garden fantail and the exhibition fantail, boasting an attractive appearance. They are perfect for dovecotes and aviaries

Avery Doves

These doves are not suitable for homing dovecotes because they lack the necessary homing instincts to thrive in such an environment

1. Garden Fantail

  • Appearance: Garden fantails have a slightly smaller tail spread compared to full fantails but still display an elegant fan-shaped tail.
  • Habitat: Ideal for outdoor aviaries and dovecotes in gardens.
  • Behavior: They are hardy and relatively easy to care for, making them popular among hobbyists who enjoy watching them in a natural setting.
  • Breeding: Known for their prolific breeding, making them a good choice for those looking to start a small dove colony.

2. Full Fantail

  • Appearance: Full fantails are characterized by their extravagant, fully fanned tails that they can hold erect over their backs.
  • Habitat: Often kept in specialized aviaries or indoor enclosures to protect their delicate feathers.
  • Behavior: These doves are known for their calm and gentle demeanor, making them great pets.
  • Breeding: Breeding full fantails can be more challenging due to their unique tail structure, which requires careful handling.

3. Exhibition Fantail

  • Appearance: Exhibition fantails are bred specifically for show purposes, with a perfect tail fan and overall symmetry being key traits.
  • Habitat: Typically kept in controlled environments to maintain their pristine condition.
  • Behavior: They are usually well-socialized due to frequent handling and preparation for shows.
  • Breeding: Selective breeding is essential to maintain the high standards required for exhibitions, making it a more involved process.

4. Garden Dove

  • Appearance: Garden doves have a more natural and less ornate appearance compared to fantails, resembling wild doves.
  • Habitat: Well-suited for outdoor environments, they thrive in garden settings with plenty of space to fly and forage.
  • Behavior: Hardy and adaptable, garden doves are active and enjoy exploring their surroundings.
  • Breeding: They are relatively easy to breed and care for, making them a good choice for beginners.

5. Java Dove

  • Appearance: Java doves, also known as white doves or peace doves, have a sleek, all-white appearance with a graceful build.
  • Habitat: They can be kept both indoors and outdoors, provided they have a safe and spacious environment.
  • Behavior: Known for their gentle and friendly nature, they are often used in ceremonial releases due to their calm disposition.
  • Breeding: Java doves are prolific breeders and are often used in genetic studies due to their consistent breeding habits.

6. Avery Dove

  • Appearance: Avery doves encompass a variety of dove species commonly kept in aviaries, including both ornamental and wild types.
  • Habitat: Best suited for large aviaries where they have ample space to fly and interact with other birds.
  • Behavior: Their behavior can vary widely depending on the specific species, but they generally adapt well to aviary life.
  • Breeding: Avery doves are usually easy to breed in a controlled environment, provided they have proper care and nesting facilities.