The Gimpel Pigeon is a breed of domesticated pigeon known for its distinctive markings and colors. Originating in Germany, it is popular among pigeon fanciers and has been bred for various purposes, such as racing, showing, and flying. This article will provide an in-depth look at the history, characteristics, temperament, preferred living conditions, and usage of the Gimpel Pigeon.
Origin
The exact origin of the Gimpel Pigeon is not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the Balkan region, specifically Dalmatia (now Croatia) or Illyria (Montenegro/Albania). The breed’s development and color refinements are attributed to Germany, with one specific color attributed to the United Kingdom. Today, the breed is most numerous in Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Breed Characteristics
The Gimpel Pigeon is known for its lustrous colors and distinctive markings. It is a medium-sized pigeon, measuring between 33 and 34 centimeters in length and weighing between 280 and 400 grams. Here are some key physical characteristics of the Gimpel Pigeon:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Head | Narrow, long, slightly arched, plain-headed or peak crested, with the pointed crest highly placed in a sharp point |
| Body | Slender and graceful, with a slightly pronounced, wide-ish breast and a back that slopes elegantly down to the tail |
| Wings | Moderately long, with close feathers, giving them a tight and well-sitted appearance on the tail |
| Tail | Long and narrow, tightly closed, usually with 12 feathers, and should not touch the ground when the pigeon is standing |
| Feathers | Lustrous colors, with possible variations in body bronze or gold and wings in blue, black, or white |
Temperament
The Gimpel Pigeon is known for its friendly and gentle temperament. While adult birds may need some time to get used to human contact, they are not aggressive and can be easily trained. The breed is known to happily eat out of an owner’s hand and can develop a strong bond with its caretaker. It has a lively disposition, especially if raised from a hatchling.
Preferred Living Conditions
Gimpel Pigeons are generally adaptable to various living conditions. They can tolerate most climates and are not particularly sensitive to temperature changes. They are a good choice for pigeon fanciers with limited space, as they require less space compared to some other breeds. They are also known to be cheaper to keep, as they eat less than other breeds. They can be kept both indoors and outdoors, but appropriate housing and protection from predators are necessary.
Usage
The Gimpel Pigeon is primarily bred for show purposes due to its distinctive colors and markings. It is considered one of the most beautiful show birds in the pigeon world. The breed standard varies by country, with different color conventions recognized. While it is not suitable for racing due to its physical features, the Gimpel Pigeon can make a great pet and is known for its longevity, with a lifespan of 7 to 10 years.
Interesting Fact: The British named the bronze blackwing Gimpel Archangel due to its great color and luster.
