Tangerine Ring-necked Doves (Streptopelia risoria) are orange-brown in coloring on their wings, back and tail with white flight feathers. They are slightly paler in the head and chest with a pale belly and a white-orange band along the back of the neck. Eyes are dark, beak is tan to grey and feet are purple. Doves are very tame and will sometimes sit on your shoulder or cuddle up and fall asleep. They are valued for pet therapy and magicians, and are a wonderful family pet. Note: Markings can vary.
Geography: Although its true origin is unknown, the Ring-necked Dove (Streptopelia risoria) is generally thought to be descended from the African Ring Dove or African Collared Dove Streptopelia roseogrisea. It had been kept for over 2000 years, brought to Europe in the second half of the sixteenth century from Sudan. Described by Linnaeus in 1756 as Columba risoria, it is only known to exist as a domesticated bird.
Song / Call: Click to hear the ring-necked dove
Size / Weight: 10.75 inches and about 0.4 pounds (150 to 200 grams) when fully grown
Sexing: Monomorphic (visually difficult to sex)
Temperament: Perhaps best known for its gentle temperament, a Ring-necked Dove makes a great pet that is sweet natured and almost naturally tame. These adorable and gentle doves are not only have a very sweet gentle nature but are also very easy to care for and will do well in either a cage or in an aviary, being kept as a single bird or as a pair. Once a White Dove is comfortable with its home and its family, it can be handled by adults and children alike.
Breeding: Ring-necked Doves are easy to breed, but are not usually community breeders unless there is a lot of room. They will do best in their own cage and it can be relatively small. They are rather flimsy nest builders so it is best to provide them with an open nesting container.
Lifespan: 15 years
Diet: Dove Seed, Australian Blend Goldenfeast. Mineral Grit, washed greens
* Note: Ringneck Doves should not be confused with Homing Pigeons as they are different birds. The Ringneck Dove should not be released at ceremonial events such as weddings or funerals as they are a species that is man-made in captivity, and will not survive in the wild. It is the Homing Pigeon that is often released at ceremonial events such as weddings and can be rented for events through various service providers.
