Smidge & Oriole

Meet Smidge and Oriole. Each of these female Ringneck doves found their way to the same rescuer, although not at the same time. But when they met, it was a match, and they are now in foster care with the amazing Jill, Palomacy’s Care Director. I recently sat down with her to find out a little more about this pair.

First, if you had to pick a celebrity couple these two remind you of, who would it be and why?
Probably Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi because they are both gorgeous ladies and one (Smidge) is quite funny.

Do they both lay eggs at the same time?
Not to the minute, which would be kinda impressive, but yes they do! And because they are both hens, you don’t have to switch the real eggs for feggs as they aren’t fertile!

Do they share nest-building duties?
Yes — they love to nest build and enjoy playing in crinkly paper, which is extremely cute.

Do they like baths?
Yes! Doves love bathing, although some love it more than others. Smidge and Oriole both love bathing and they often bathe together!

What are their favorite treats?
Seriously? Safflower seeds — obviously.

Are they in your outdoor aviary or inside?
They are inside birds for now — they seem young to me, and, honestly, a little clueless. I’m waiting til they’re a little older before introducing them to other doves.

How is their health — did they come to Palomacy needing medical care?
No — for once! They were not injured or sick when found and I’m so glad they found each other and are happy and healthy. Fun fact: Often, doves don’t need to be married to share a cage, unlike pigeons, who do.

Who did they vote for in the last election?
They aren’t registered but we are working on that. They have definite opinions about the current president…

Would these two make a good pair for someone new to doves?
They would indeed make good additions to any family, experienced or not. The thing with doves is they are easy to please and two hens are relatively quiet. Hens can be vocal but not as vocal as males. Smidge and Oriole are very easy going, and a pair is a good fit for an adopter who works outside the home since they have each other for company. Caring for doves is simple too — a large dog crate with some perches, platforms, and mirrors; daily food and fresh water; a bowl for bathing; and, with females, a daily check for eggs that can be swapped out for feggs (fake eggs).

If you’re interested in adopting this sweet, adorable pair, please fill out an application here.