People in the Middle Ages thought that the birds chose their mates on St. Valentine's day. Since the first valentine, beautiful birds have been depicted on Valentines cards. Doves have long been favorites - either a pair or a single dove bearing a message. The dove was sacred to Venus and other love deities. And from the time of Noah, doves have served as messengers.
Doves are members of the pigeon family, so they mate for life, sharing the care of their babies.
Shy and gentle, they are known for their billing and cooing, and have long been symbols of romantic love. It was said that to dream of a dove was a promise of happiness. Wishes made when the first dove appeared in springtime would come true, or so it was said. St. Valentine's Day is a happy and sentimental time. Spring, with its flowers and birdsong, is at last in sight.