Information on Pet Ringneck Doves

Ring-necked doves (Streptopelia capicola) are smallish African birds that are often kept as household pets. They're common out in their natural geographic scope -- they're found everywhere from South Africa to Ethiopia. Some other names for ring-necked doves include barbary dove, dark-eyed ring dove and half-collared dove.

  1. Physical Appearance

    • If you're interested in bringing a birdie into your home, size is always an important consideration. These elegant birds generally only grow to roughly 12 inches in length, however. Their plumage is a distinct blend of both light yellowish-beige and gray, although captive specimens appear in an assortment of diverse colors, from pink to white. The borders of their wings are a grayish-blue. Ring-necked doves have red beaks and feet.

    Cage

    • In establishing a suitable and healthy living environment for a pet ring-necked dove, space is a major factor. Opt for a roomy cage that is appropriate, size-wise, for a cockatiel. Make sure it's a minimum of 18 inches in height and width. Also make sure the cage's bars are neither too close together nor far apart -- think half an inch, ideally. Although doves do not generally gravitate toward toys, they may enjoy fun cage additions such as bells and swings.

    Diet

    • These wee birdies predominantly consume seeds. Grit is also essential in the diet, as it promotes doves' bodies proper deconstruction of the seeds. Commercial dove blends and seed blends geared toward wild birds both make appropriate foundations for ring-necked bird dietary plans. For occasional yummy treats, you can also allow these doves to feed on special "snacks" such as apples, sweet potatoes, cheese shreds, carrots, broccoli, peanut butter, cornbread, lettuce and rice, but in strict moderation -- no more than a spoon of anything. It is crucial, however, to always get an "OK" from an avian veterinarian before feeding your dove anything new. If your ring-necked dove doesn't finish his treat within an hour or so, take all remnants of it out of the cage.

    Temperament

    • For the most part, pet ring-necked doves are comparatively low-maintenance birds, especially when compared to parrots. They tend to prefer the company of fellow birds over the company of humans, although exceptions do exist. Ring-necked doves are known for their even, pleasant and relaxed overall temperaments. They are not especially noisy birds, but definitely do their fair share of murmuring.

    Health

    • It's vital to make sure that ring-necked doves visit avian veterinarians at least once annually for physical examinations. These birds are susceptible to a handful of medical conditions, including both paramyxovirus and avian pox. If you ever notice any indications of malaise or discomfort in your dove, seek out urgent veterinary assistance. With the right diet, living environment, veterinary care and even a little luck, ring-necked doves can survive for 25 years or so -- not bad.