This habit encourages rodents to free-feed and their droppings mingled with the seed on the ground are a significant source of parasitic infestation in doves. Giving smaller rations more frequently in a tall-sided dish close to but off the ground is the keeper's best hedge against this problem. No special diet is required during breeding. These may be hung on wire walls or attached in forks of trees and shrubs. Fine roots and twigs should be supplied for nest construction, no lining material being used.
Capes are reliable breeders and good parents.
In smaller enclosures, adult males may begin to fight with juvenile cocks as they begin to color up which happens when they are around 4 months old. The process takes about two months to complete and they reach sexual maturity at 6 to 8 months of age.