The Cakal Roller is a distinctive breed of pigeon known for its unique morphological characteristics and performance in flight. Originating from the Balkans and cultivated for hundreds of years, particularly in Turkey, the Cakal Roller has a rich history and cultural significance.
The Cakal Roller, also known as Çakal Güvercin, is a variety of roller pigeon that is part of the Tumbler pigeon group. This breed is characterized by its remarkable flying abilities, which include performing backward somersaults or rolls while in flight. The Cakal Roller has a historical presence in Turkey and is known for its striking appearance and flight performance.
Origin and History
The Cakal Roller pigeon is believed to have originated from the Balkans and has been bred in Turkey for several centuries. The breed was particularly popular in the Marmara and Thrace regions of Turkey. In the 1980s, the Cakal Roller was introduced to Germany from Turkey and subsequently spread to various countries in Europe.
The name “Cakal” (or “Çakal”) is derived from the Turkish word for “jackal,” likely due to the breed’s color resemblance to the animal. The breed is also historically associated with horse-shoers or blacksmiths in old Bursa, which led to the alternative name “Nalbant” among old fanciers.
Physical Characteristics
The Cakal Roller is known for its small to medium size and distinctive color patterns. The breed exhibits a variety of colors, including yellow, red, and black, with a long white tail being a particularly attractive characteristic. The Cakal Roller’s beak is shorter and thinner compared to similar breeds, and it has a clean-legged appearance with no feathers below the knees. The eyes are light gray with blue streaks, and the ring around the eyes is light-colored and prominent.
Key Data Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Weight | 400-700 grams |
| Tail Length | 14-16 feathers, no oil-gland (distinct from Bursas) |
| Beak | Shorter and thinner compared to Bursas |
| Legs | Clean-legged, no feathers below the knees |
| Eye Color | Light gray with blue streaks |
| Ring Around Eyes | Light-colored and obvious |
| Color Variations | Yellow, red, black, with white-tailed markings |
| Lifespan | 12-16 years |
Behavior and Performance
The Cakal Roller is classified among performing birds, known for their ability to perform multiple consecutive backward somersaults during flight. This breed tends to fly in groups and is capable of flying at high altitudes for extended periods. The rolling behavior is a result of selective breeding and is a trait that has been cultivated over time.
Current Status
Today, the Cakal Roller is considered a rare breed, with declining numbers primarily in its native regions of Marmara and Thrace. The interest in the breed has diminished, leading to its near-extinct status. Efforts by breeders in Turkey, such as Tayyar Başaran and Metin Ayaz, have been noted for their work in improving and preserving the Cakal Roller breed.
Interesting Facts
- The Cakal Roller is often confused with the Bursa breed due to their similar appearance. However, they can be distinguished by the number of tail feathers and the presence or absence of an oil gland.
- The breed’s flying abilities were once so esteemed that they were flown alongside Bursas, and there are accounts of them flying for long hours and even overnight.
- The Cakal Roller’s performance in flight is not just for show; historically, these birds were also valued for their homing instinct and navigation skills, which were utilized by humans for carrying messages.
Conservation and Breeding
Conservation efforts for the Cakal Roller are crucial to prevent the breed from becoming extinct. Breeders who are passionate about preserving the breed’s lineage are working to maintain its morphological characteristics and flying abilities. The breeding cycle and practices for roller pigeons, including the Cakal Roller, are essential for sustaining the population and ensuring the continuation of this unique breed.
