The Amsterdam Beard Tumbler, also known as the Amsterdamse Tuimelaar, is a breed of fancy pigeon developed over centuries in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. This breed is distinguished by its unique tumbling behavior in flight and its characteristic physical features, including a “beard” of feathers around its beak. The Amsterdam Beard Tumbler is not a racing pigeon but is classified within the tumbler pigeons type, known for their acrobatic flight capabilities.
History and Origin
The Amsterdam Beard Tumbler has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It was internationally recognized as a distinct breed in 1993, although its development in Amsterdam began much earlier. The breed is a product of selective breeding, which has emphasized both its physical attributes and its tumbling ability in flight.
Physical Characteristics
The Amsterdam Beard Tumbler is a medium-sized pigeon with a body position that is almost flat, agile, and quick to react. One of its most notable features is the presence of white patches of fur on the chin or throat, as well as white tail feathers and primary wing feathers. The breed comes in various colors, including black, red, brown, blue, beige, and yellow, with or without wing stripes (bar).
Key Data Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Body Shape | Almost flat, agile |
| Head | Small, beautifully arched with a smooth, flowing skull-line |
| Beak | Medium length, thin, straight, slightly bent at the tip |
| Eyes | Pearl color or sometimes dark, situated high and deep into the skull |
| Neck | Short and broad, slightly falling off towards the tail |
| Wings | Powerful with wide feathers fitting closely to the body |
| Tail | Short, narrow, and smooth with generally 12 feathers |
| Legs | Very short thighs and longer shanks |
| Plumage | Full and smooth, tightly fitting |
| Colors | Black, red, brown, blue, beige, yellow, with or without wing stripes |
| Ring Size | 8 (for identification and shows) |
Behavior and Abilities
The Amsterdam Beard Tumbler is known for its tumbling behavior, which is a form of acrobatic flight where the bird flies up vertically and then tumbles or rolls backward. This behavior is not only a spectacle but also a historical method of avoiding predators. The breed is also recognized for its strong aviator type, although it is not used for racing purposes.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for the Amsterdam Beard Tumbler requires attention to their diet, housing, and health. They should be provided with high-quality feed formulated for pigeons, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients for their health and tumbling displays. A well-maintained loft is essential for their well-being, as is regular health check-ups to prevent and treat any potential illnesses.
Cultural Significance
In Amsterdam, the Tumbler pigeon has a unique cultural significance. Some locals use the feathers of the Tumbler pigeon to add volume and shape to their beards, a tradition that nods to the city’s deep history and culture. This unusual grooming practice highlights the breed’s integration into the local lifestyle and traditions.
Breeding and Exhibition
The Amsterdam Beard Tumbler is bred both for its flying abilities and for exhibition purposes. Breeders value the birds for their powerful flight and tumbling skills, as well as their distinctive appearance, which makes them attractive show birds. The breed’s standard is assessed based on various criteria, including flight power, body proportions, and hue during contests or exhibitions.
Conservation and Popularity
While the Amsterdam Beard Tumbler is not as popular among the general public in the Netherlands, it holds a special place among pigeon fanciers and breeders. Efforts to preserve and promote the breed are important to maintain its presence and prevent it from becoming less common.
