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The Elster Cropper is a domesticated breed of pigeon known for its large, inflatable crop. It is valued for its unusual appearance and is kept as an ornamental pet. The Elster Cropper belongs to the Pouter pigeon group, which consists of fifteen different varieties.
Origin
The exact origin of the Elster Cropper is not known. However, it is believed to have originated in Germany, specifically in Bohemia, and then spread to other regions such as Silesia, Saxony, and Saxony Anhalt. The breed was developed as a pet and is known by various names, including Boulant Pie, Elsterkröpfer, and Gozzuto Pica.
Breed Characteristics
The Elster Cropper is characterized by its large, inflatable crop. The crop is a specialized pouch located at the base of the bird’s neck, which can be expanded to a significant size. The size of the crop is a distinguishing feature of the breed.
Here are some key characteristics of the Elster Cropper:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium to large |
| Color | Varies; can be solid or patterned |
| Body Type | Compact and muscular |
| Head | Medium-sized, with a short beak |
| Eye Color | Varies; can be dark or light |
Interesting fact: Elster Croppers are sometimes called ″pigeons with a potbelly″ due to the large size of their inflated crop.
Temperament
The Elster Cropper is known for its calm and docile temperament. It is generally easy to handle and is often kept as a pet for its pleasant nature. Elster Croppers are not known for their flying abilities and are more commonly kept for their appearance than for their performance in flying competitions.
Preferred Living Conditions
Elster Croppers are versatile birds and can adapt to various living conditions. They can be kept in both indoor and outdoor aviaries or lofts. Proper housing should provide enough space for the birds to move around comfortably. The enclosure should also be secure to prevent escape.
Usage
The Elster Cropper is primarily kept as an ornamental pet bird. It is valued for its unique appearance and is often showcased in bird shows and exhibitions. However, it is not commonly used for flying competitions due to its limited flying abilities.
Interesting fact: Elster Croppers are frequently featured in European pigeon breed standards and have been assigned the number 305 in the list of breeds of fancy pigeons by the European Association of Poultry, Pigeon, Cage Bird, Rabbit, and Cavy Breeders.
