Discover the fascinating world of the King Pigeon, a unique breed that combines the grace of the Duchess, the alertness of the Homer, the style of the Maltese, and the size of the Runt. Renowned for its large stature and gentle temperament, this breed is a favorite among both novice and seasoned pigeon enthusiasts. From its color variations to its preferred living conditions, and even its utility in squab production, the King Pigeon embodies a captivating blend of beauty and practicality.
Origin
The King Pigeon, also known as the Utility Pigeon, is a domesticated bird breed that originated in the United States in the late 1800s. It was developed through selective breeding by crossing four older pigeon varieties: the Duchess for grace, the Homer for alertness, the Maltese for compactness and style, and the Runt for body and size. The King Pigeon is a descendant of the Rock Pigeon (Columba livia).
Breed Characteristics
The King Pigeon is a large and robust bird with an upright carriage. It has a short tail that is slightly tilted upward. The breed is known for its compact body and chicken-like appearance. King Pigeons come in various colors, including blue, silver, black, white, or red.
Temperament
The King Pigeon is known for its gentle and calm temperament. It is considered an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced pigeon enthusiasts. King Pigeons are generally docile and easy to handle.
Preferred Living Conditions
King Pigeons can adapt to various living conditions, including urban settings and rural areas. They can be kept in lofts or aviaries, but they do not require flying or perching at heights. Due to their limited flying abilities, it is recommended to provide them with enclosures to protect them from predators. They should have access to perches and nests at low heights.
Usage
The King Pigeon was initially developed for utility purposes, primarily for its meat. However, over time, it has also gained popularity as a show bird, bred for exhibition purposes. King Pigeons are one of the most commonly available fancy pigeon breeds, especially in the United States, Pakistan, and India. They are also used for squab production in some parts of China, Africa, America, and Europe.
Interesting Facts
- The King Pigeon is one of the largest pigeon breeds in the world.
- King Pigeons have limited flying abilities due to their body size and shape.
- The breed was developed through selective breeding by crossing four older pigeon varieties.
- King Pigeons can be used for meat production and are known for their suitability for squab production.
- They are commonly available in the USA, Pakistan, and India.
| Breed Name | King Pigeon |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Size | Large-size |
| Color | Blue, silver, black, white, or red |
| Flying Range | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use | Pets, utility, and showing |
| Price | 50 – 100 |
