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The University of Southern California (USC) continues to release doves as part of its commencement ceremony each year, despite knowing that birds used for these events often get lost, injured, or killed.
Such releases cause these captive-bred birds to suffer and can threaten their lives. A graduation, with its sensory overload, is no place for doves, who have sensitive ears. Loud noises can permanently damage their auditory receptors and cause them tremendous pain and anxiety.
After being released, in their frantic attempts to return home, doves may wander for days without eating or resting. During this stressful ordeal, the disoriented birds can succumb to countless perils. PETA has received many calls from good Samaritans who have found severely injured or badly malnourished banded birds. Our staff members have picked up the remains of several killed by hawks or falcons.
Birds, like all animals, are unique and interesting individuals who can experience stress, pain, joy, and love and want to live. They’re not props or other objects.
Please join PETA in urging USC President Carol Folt to end the archaic tradition of releasing doves at school events!