Fancy pigeons are domesticated breeds of pigeons that have been selectively bred for specific traits such as size, shape, color, and behavior. These pigeons are often exhibited at pigeon shows, fairs, and other livestock exhibits. There are approximately 800 recognized breeds of fancy pigeons worldwide, each with its own unique characteristics and appearance.
Key Takeaways
- Fancy pigeons are domesticated breeds that have been selectively bred for specific traits.
- There are around 800 recognized breeds of fancy pigeons worldwide.
- These pigeons are often exhibited at pigeon shows and fairs.
History of Fancy Pigeons
The origins of fancy pigeons can be traced back to the domestication of the rock dove (Columba livia). The breeding of fancy pigeons began centuries ago, with enthusiasts importing fancy breeds from the Middle East and South Asia to crossbreed and create even more fascinating and unique pigeon breeds.
In 1856, Charles Darwin conducted research on fancy pigeon breeds and proved that their primary origin is the rock dove. During the Victorian Era in Great Britain and Ireland, fancy pigeons gained popularity among upper and middle-class hobbyists, and their popularity expanded to the lower classes by the early 1900s.
Popular Breeds of Fancy Pigeons
There are numerous breeds of fancy pigeons, each with its own distinct physical characteristics and coloration. Some of the popular breeds of fancy pigeons include:
- Homing Pigeon: Known for their exceptional homing abilities, these pigeons are often bred and trained for racing purposes. They are medium-sized and have a slender body.
- Antwerp Smerle: This fancy pigeon breed has unique features like feathers tied (jabot) around the neck, a distinctive color pattern, and a short and broad beak not commonly found in other pigeon breeds.
- Show Pigeons: Show pigeons are bred and exhibited for their beauty and perfection. They are judged based on strict breed standards and can be found in various pigeon shows and competitions.
- Jacobin: Jacobin pigeons are known for their unique appearance. They have a gorgeous hood that completely covers their face from both sides, which contributed to their name.
- English Pouter: This breed is known for its enlarged crop, which was described by Charles Darwin in his book ″The Variation of Animals and Plants Under Domestication.″ They have a distinct appearance with a thick neck and wedge-shaped head.
- Magpie Pigeon: The Magpie pigeon is a fancy breed characterized by its slender body, erect posture, and distinctive markings and colors. It originated from Germany and Denmark and became popular in England and parts of America.
- Tumbler Pigeons: Tumbler pigeons are famous for their aerial acrobatics, rolling, and tumbling in mid-air. There are about 17 different breeds of tumbler pigeons, each with its own physical appearance and personality traits.
- Fantail Pigeon: Fantail pigeons are widely recognized for their distinctive tail. Unlike regular pigeons, they have 30-40 tail feathers, creating an impressive display. The true fantail is completely white in color.
- African Owl Pigeon: This fancy pigeon breed originated in Africa and is bred for showing purposes. It has a ball-shaped head, short beak, crested chest, and large eyes.
- Trumpeter Pigeon: Trumpeter pigeons are descendants of rock pigeons and are known for their special cooing, which sounds like human laughter or trumpeting. They come in several varieties with slight color variations.
- Dragoon Pigeon: Dragoon pigeons are medium-sized pigeons characterized by their short, thick necks, and broad, wedge-shaped heads. They resemble common rock pigeons but have unique features.
- Frillbacks: Frillbacks are fancy pigeons distinguished by the frills or curls on their wing shield feathers. The feather curl may also be present at the ends of their foot feathers.
Benefits of Keeping Fancy Pigeon Breeds
Keeping fancy pigeon breeds in urban areas can offer several benefits. Some of the advantages include:
- Therapeutic Benefits: Caring for fancy pigeons can have therapeutic benefits, serving as a stress reliever for individuals in urban environments.
- Pest Control: Pigeons can help control insect populations in urban environments.
Overall, fancy pigeon breeds are not only a visual delight but also contribute to the well-being of their owners in various ways.
In conclusion, fancy pigeons are domesticated breeds that have been selectively bred for specific traits. With around 800 recognized breeds worldwide, each pigeon breed offers unique and appealing characteristics. Whether it’s the stunning colors, intricate feather patterns, or distinctive body shapes, fancy pigeons continue to captivate the admiration of pigeon fanciers and enthusiasts.
