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Streptopelia roseogrisea
A colour variety of the Barbary dove fixed on a mutation that makes the bird completely white; it is not a separate species. It is traditionally used in stage magic and ceremonial releases, and is a peace symbol in several cultures.
The white dove, or Java dove, is a colour variety of the Barbary dove - the domesticated form of the African collared dove (Streptopelia roseogrisea) - fixed on a mutation that makes the bird completely white. It is not a separate species and shares the scientific name of its wild ancestor. Barbary doves were once believed to descend from the Eurasian collared dove, but genetic evidence showed the African collared dove to be the ancestor. Fanciers have produced a great variety of colours, white among them. White Barbary doves are the birds most commonly used in stage magic acts, and because the dove is a peace symbol in several cultures they are traditionally released in large public ceremonies; dove releases are also sometimes found at weddings and funerals. The birds are easy to keep and long-lived, reaching about 12 years in captivity with cases over 20 years and one of 29. Because their behavioural sequences are so consistent, Barbary doves as a whole have been used widely in studies of reproductive behaviour.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The White Dove (Java Dove) lives About 12 years in captivity, with cases over 20 years and one record of 29 years.
The White Dove (Java Dove) grows to About 26cm in the wild African collared dove ancestor (130-166g).
The wild ancestor is about 26 cm long and weighs 130-166 g.
Origin
A colour variety of a domesticated form; the wild ancestor lives in the Sahel, the northern Horn of Africa and southwestern Arabia
Lifespan
Sources: Wikipedia - Barbary dove / Wikipedia - African collared dove
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Streptopelia roseogrisea (Sundevall, 1857)
Synonyms: Streptopelia risoria, Columba risoria
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Streptopelia roseogrisea. It is not listed in the CITES Appendices and does not appear in the Japanese schedule of designated dangerous animals. It is a colour variety of a domesticated form and must not be released or abandoned.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / Cabinet Order under the Act on Welfare and Management of Animals, appended table (designated dangerous animals)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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About 12 years in captivity, with cases over 20 years and one record of 29 years
Size
About 26cm in the wild African collared dove ancestor (130-166g)
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Pigeon mixes of grains and pulses, greens, a calcium source such as oyster shell, and clean drinking water
Use a pigeon cage or aviary with perches and a nest bowl. White plumage shows dirt, so provide dust- and water-bathing areas and clean substrate.
Thoroughly domesticated and easy to tame. Pair bonds are strong and breeding behaviour appears consistently.
It repeats a low, soft cooing. Quieter than parrots, it is rarely a problem in a residential setting.
It is not listed in the CITES Appendices and needs no special permit. Ceremonial releases without recovery should be avoided: escaped birds may not survive, or may establish in the wild.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The average lifespan of White Dove (Java Dove) is About 12 years in captivity, with cases over 20 years and one record of 29 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
White Dove (Java Dove) typically reaches About 26cm in the wild African collared dove ancestor (130-166g) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
White Dove (Java Dove) feeds on: Pigeon mixes of grains and pulses, greens, a calcium source such as oyster shell, and clean drinking water. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of White Dove (Java Dove) varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026