The Romanian Naked-neck Tumbler pigeon, as its name suggests, is most notable for its lack of feathers on its neck, giving it a striking and somewhat unusual appearance compared to other pigeon breeds. This breed is not only valued for its distinctive look but also for its flying and tumbling abilities, making it a favorite among pigeon enthusiasts who appreciate both form and function in their birds.
History and Origin
The Romanian Naked-neck Tumbler pigeon is derived from the Ciung Tumbler, a breed originating from the vicinity of Bucharest, Romania. The mutation responsible for the naked neck likely emerged towards the end of the 19th century and was first documented in 1899. The breed is affectionately known in Romania as “Ciung-chel,” translating to “naked Ciung,” highlighting its close relationship with the Ciung Tumbler.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Romania, near Bucharest |
| First Described | 1899 |
| Derived from | Ciung Tumbler |
| Other Names | Ciung-chel (naked Ciung) |
| Primary Trait | Unfeathered neck |
Physical Characteristics
The Romanian Naked-neck Tumbler pigeon is a small to medium-sized bird, characterized by its unfeathered neck. Despite its lack of neck feathers, the breed boasts a full plumage elsewhere, with long feathers that contribute to its unique flying style, often described as butterfly-like. The bird’s stance is low and somewhat sloped, with a wide and flat tail comprising at least 14 feathers. The tail and wing feathers are notably long, contributing to the bird’s distinctive silhouette.
Behavior and Temperament
This breed is known for its remarkable flight, capable of staying airborne for several hours, a trait it shares with its ancestor, the Ciung Tumbler. Despite being more commonly kept in aviaries now, the Romanian Naked-neck Tumbler’s flying and tumbling abilities are still much admired. These pigeons may also become very intimate with their keepers, showing a level of affection and tameness that is not always observed in other pigeon breeds.
Interesting Facts
- Adaptation and Recognition: The breed was introduced to East Germany in 1964 and rapidly gained popularity. It was officially recognized in various colors over the years, with the red, yellow, and red barred plumages being particularly noted.
- Russian Variant: There was a Russian variant of the Naked-neck Tumbler, known as Golosenja, originating from Ukraine and the Black Sea area. This variant is possibly extinct and was known only in red and red barred colors.
- Feral Sightings: A feral pigeon with the naked-neck trait was spotted in The Hague in 2008, indicating that the mutation can spontaneously occur and is not limited to controlled breeding environments.
Conservation and Current Status
The Romanian Naked-neck Tumbler pigeon, while not endangered, is considered a specialty breed that requires dedicated breeders to maintain its unique characteristics. The breed’s popularity in certain regions of Europe, particularly in Germany following its introduction and recognition, has helped ensure its survival and proliferation. However, its presence outside of Europe is less common, making international interest and breeding efforts crucial for its continued existence.
