The Exhibition Homer is a breed of domestic pigeon known for its distinctive appearance and characteristics that set it apart from other pigeon breeds. It is a show variant of the Homer pigeon, which includes the well-known Racing Homer, and is bred primarily for exhibition purposes rather than racing or homing abilities. The breed is admired for its beauty and form, which are the result of meticulous breeding programs.
History and Origin
The Exhibition Homer has a rich history that intertwines with the development of pigeon shows and the appreciation of pigeons as more than just utilitarian birds. The breed emerged in the United Kingdom around the turn of the 20th century, where British fanciers engaged in extensive crossbreeding and selective breeding efforts to stabilize the breed. The English breeders of that era are credited with creating a “Masterwork” with the Exhibition Homer, which has since gained popularity among breeders and fanciers.
Physical Characteristics
Head and Beak
The head of the Exhibition Homer is one of its most defining features. Breeders aim for a head that is massive, powerful, and long, with a perfectly flat skull. The beak should be as short and blunt as possible, contributing to the breed’s unique wedge-shaped profile when viewed from above and from the side.
Body and Stance
The Exhibition Homer should resemble a powerfully built Racing Pigeon but with a more markedly elevated stance. The body should be balanced, with a form that is aesthetically pleasing and meets the standards set by pigeon show judges. The breed’s overall shape is important, with a preference for a medium-sized pigeon that has a fixed, sloping position, a nicely lengthened neck, and smooth feathering.
Color and Markings
While Exhibition Homers in Germany are recognized in all Racing Pigeon colors without white markings, breeders have been attempting to introduce birds in white and red grizzle, both of which should exhibit dark face masks. The success of these breeding efforts is still being determined.
Table of Key Data
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom, early 1900s |
| Use | Exhibition |
| Body Type | Medium-sized, powerfully built, elevated stance |
| Head | Massive, powerful, long, with a flat skull |
| Beak | Short, blunt, wedge-shaped |
| Colors | All Racing Pigeon colors without white markings, with efforts to introduce white and red grizzle |
| Breeding Season | Capable of breeding 4 to 6 young per season |
| Temperament | Peaceful, calm |
Behavior and Temperament
The Exhibition Homer is known for its peaceful and calm demeanor. It is a bird that can easily breed multiple offspring in a season, provided the breeding birds are in good condition. The breed is described as extremely vital, with good homing and parenting abilities. Exhibition Homers are adaptable to both free flight and living in a large aviary or flight.
Breeding and Care
Exhibition Homers are relatively easy to breed. They require a comfortable environment, a nutritious diet, and regular health checks to ensure they remain in good condition for showing. Breeders should have a good background knowledge of the breed and set achievable goals to avoid overvaluing birds and minimize errors.
Interesting Facts
- Exhibition Homers are recognized for their exceptional artistry in breeding, which is a testament to the skill and dedication of their breeders.
- The breed is not only appreciated for its beauty but also for its vitality and adaptability, making it a favorite among pigeon fanciers.
- The Exhibition Homer’s head and beak shape are the main focus of assessment in shows, requiring breeders to pay close attention to these features.
