<P> The pigeons bred for dove release services are bred for their color and small size, not for their homing abilities or flight speed, as a result, some birds are killed by predatory birds minutes after they are released . Some released birds become confused and are found injured or dead nearby their original release site . Since these are domesticated birds, they do not possess the instincts or skills to survive in the wild . </P> <P> The Vatican no longer engages in the releasing of doves after an incident in 2014 where Pope Francis released two doves which were promptly attacked by predatory birds as crowds watched . </P> <P> Release dove handlers each offer their own unique list of release ceremonies to choose from . Some companies will offer either untrained homers, ringnecks, or other types of pigeon or dove . Those types of birds are likely to end up in the claws of a hawk, owl or cat, since they are unable to survive on their own in the wild . </P> <Ul> <Li> the "hand release" in which the bride and groom hold two doves which are then released together </Li> <Li> the "flurry" or "flock release" in which the bride and groom release two birds by hand or from a box and then a larger group of doves are released shortly afterward to join them in the sky . </Li> </Ul>

Where does the tradition of releasing 2 doves at a wedding come from