Bringing a pigeon or dove into your home as a pet is a compassionate act, offering a safe haven for birds that may not be suited for a wild existence. While the ideal scenario for these birds is to remain wild and free, the reality is that many require rescue and adoption. This guide focuses on a crucial aspect of their care: providing a secure and comfortable cage. Whether your feathered friend will live indoors or in a carefully constructed outdoor aviary, understanding their specific needs is paramount to their well-being. For further insights into keeping pigeons as pets, explore pigeons as pets.
Pigeons and doves can thrive as indoor companions, integrating seamlessly into family life. Alternatively, they can reside outdoors in a predator and rodent-proof aviary. However, it is strongly advised against housing a single bird outdoors, as pigeons and doves are flock animals and solitude can lead to stress and loneliness. An indoor pigeon or dove will readily bond with their human family, considering them part of their flock. It’s critical to remember that any bird housed outdoors, even temporarily, must be in a cage specifically designed for outdoor protection, as most standard bird cages are not predator-proof. A truly predator-proof cage requires sturdy construction, narrow bar spacing, and secure, raccoon-proof latches. Always seek expert advice if you have any doubts, as your birds’ lives depend on it.
Indoor Caging Essentials
For rescued or adopted pigeons and doves living indoors, an appropriate cage serves as their primary sanctuary and safe space. Alongside their cage, daily supervised out-of-cage time within the house is essential for exercise and socialization. It’s important to note that allowing domestic pigeons and doves to fly freely outdoors is highly discouraged due to the significant risk posed by predators such as hawks, cats, and raccoons.
Cage Size and Dimensions
The larger the cage, the better for your avian companions. Length and width are generally more important than height, as pigeons and doves do not exhibit the same climbing behaviors as parrots. A minimum recommended cage size is 42 inches wide, 27 inches deep, and 30 inches high for one or two mated pigeons. For one or two doves, a size of 32 inches wide, 32 inches high, and 21 inches deep is suggested.
Cage Flooring and Furnishings
The cage floor should be lined with an easy-to-clean, flat material such as wood, linoleum, plastic, or a custom-cut yoga mat. Wire cage bottoms are uncomfortable and detrimental to a bird’s feet. Incorporate shelves within the cage to provide varied levels for perching, lounging, and interacting. Unlike parrots, pigeons and doves benefit more from shelves than traditional perches, as shelves offer greater versatility for movement and rest. Include a spacious mirror and a weighted basket or nest box to prevent tipping.
For food and water, opt for heavy, ceramic, flat-bottomed crocks with straight sides. A casserole dish or a large plant saucer can serve as an adequate bathtub.
Lighting and Environmental Considerations
Position the cage in a well-lit area, as pigeons and doves have poor vision in low light conditions. They also benefit from safe access to direct sunlight, unfiltered by glass, or from avian-safe full-spectrum lighting. It’s beneficial to place their cage in a location where they can interact with family members, fulfilling their social needs. Drafts are generally not a concern; in fact, increased fresh air circulation is advantageous. However, it is crucial to be aware of and mitigate common household hazards for pet birds, including Teflon-coated pans, smoke, scented products, aerosols, open flames, and ceiling fans. It is vital to understand that clipped wings are only effective for preventing indoor flight and do not guarantee a bird’s safety if released outdoors.
Outdoor Aviary Safety
When considering an outdoor aviary, stringent safety measures are non-negotiable. Cages with wide bar spacing, such as those found in many dog crates, are suitable for indoor use with pigeons but pose a significant risk for doves who can easily slip through. Even for indoor settings, if dogs or cats are present, narrower bar spacing is necessary to prevent their paws and snouts from reaching the birds. While these indoor cages offer protection from household pets, they are typically not robust enough to withstand determined wild predators.
Predator-Proofing for Outdoor Enclosures
Outdoor aviaries must be exceptionally well-constructed to protect birds from predators. This includes sturdy building materials, narrow bar spacing (typically no more than 0.5 inches), and secure, raccoon-proof latches on all access points. Many commercially available outdoor enclosures are not adequately predator-proof and require modification. Rabbit hutches and chicken coops, for instance, often have wide bar spacing and inadequate latches, making them death traps without significant reinforcement. Always verify that any latches are truly raccoon-proof, as these animals are intelligent, agile, and persistent.
Aviary Design and Features
Safe outdoor aviaries should be equipped with an attached floor to prevent burrowing predators and ensure no gaps larger than 0.5 inches exist. Shelves can be incorporated into outdoor enclosures as well, providing additional resting and activity areas. Flight cages designed for outdoor use, when properly constructed, can offer a secure environment for pigeons and doves.
For more comprehensive information on creating a safe outdoor environment for pigeons and doves, consult resources on how to create an aviary.
Seeking Expert Guidance
If you are uncertain about the safety or suitability of any cage or aviary, it is highly recommended to consult with an expert. Sharing photos and detailed questions with experienced individuals or rescue organizations can provide invaluable guidance. Many pigeon and dove rescue groups are active on platforms like Facebook, such as Pigeon & Dove Rescue International and Palomacy Pigeon & Dove Adoptions. Engaging with these communities can offer direct assistance and support.
Ultimately, the responsibility for the safety, happiness, and lives of our pet birds rests with us. Providing them with a secure, enriching environment is a fundamental aspect of their care.
