Pet Dove from Missouri Recognized as World's Oldest Captive Dove at 44 Years and 72 Days

A pet dove residing in Missouri has officially been acknowledged as the world's oldest dove living in captivity, reaching the age of 44 years and 72 days.

Guinness World Records verified that Sugar, owned by 77-year-old Dewayne Orender of Chesterfield, exceeded the former record held by a German dove named Methuselah by over 15 years.

On average, doves kept in captivity live around 20 years.

"He appears very happy and content," Orender shared with Guinness World Records. "He loves me deeply — he and I are best friends."

Orender has looked after Sugar since the bird hatched, as Sugar's parents were also his pets. The record-breaking dove enjoys relaxing on the couch watching television alongside his owner, which has earned him the affectionate nickname "lap dog."

Sugar reacts to music by tapping his foot and has featured in two of Orender's music videos during his 50-year career in music.