The Valencian Cropper, also known as the Dutch Type Valencian Cropper, is a breed of domestic pigeon that originated in the Netherlands. This breed is highly valued for its unique appearance and flying capabilities. The Valencian Cropper is known for its distinctive crop, which is a bulging of the feathers at the front of the neck. This breed is popular among pigeon enthusiasts for both exhibition purposes and as a pet.
Origin
The Valencian Cropper originated in the Netherlands, specifically in the province of Valencia. It is believed that the breed was developed through selective breeding over many years. The Valencian Cropper is a result of crossbreeding and selection from other cropper breeds, such as the Ghent Cropper and Pomeranian Pouter.
Breed Characteristics
The Valencian Cropper is a medium-sized pigeon with a compact and muscular body. It has a rounded head and a short, stout beak. The breed is known for its distinctive crop, which is a protrusion of the feathers on the front of the neck. The crop can vary in size and shape, but it is generally large and round. The plumage of the Valencian Cropper comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, including solid colors, pied, and mottled patterns.
Here are some key characteristics of the Valencian Cropper:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium-sized |
| Body Type | Compact and muscular |
| Head | Rounded |
| Beak | Short and stout |
| Crop | Distinctive and protruding |
| Plumage | Wide range of colors and patterns |
Temperament
The Valencian Cropper is known for its calm and gentle temperament. It is a sociable breed that gets along well with other pigeons. Valencian Croppers are generally friendly towards humans and can make good pets. They are intelligent birds and can be trained to perform various tasks. However, like all pigeons, they have a natural instinct to fly and may become restless if not provided with adequate flying opportunities.
Preferred Living Conditions
The Valencian Cropper is a versatile breed that can adapt to various living conditions. However, they thrive best in a spacious aviary or loft where they have ample space to fly and exercise. They should be provided with perches, nesting boxes, and proper ventilation. The temperature in the loft should be moderate, neither too hot nor too cold.
Usage
The Valencian Cropper is primarily kept for exhibition purposes, as it is highly valued for its unique appearance and crop. Pigeon exhibitors may participate in competitions and shows to showcase the beauty and flying abilities of their Valencian Croppers. Additionally, some pigeon enthusiasts keep Valencian Croppers as pets due to their sociable nature and attractive appearance.
Interesting Fact: The Valencian Cropper is known for its excellent flying abilities. It is capable of performing impressive aerial maneuvers and can fly at high speeds.
