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The Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler is a breed of fancy pigeon that is distinguished by its colorful head and unique feathering. This breed has a rich history and has been developed through selective breeding to achieve its current appearance and characteristics. Below is an encyclopedic entry detailing various aspects of the Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler.
The Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler, known in German as “Königsberger Farbenköpfe,” is a breed of fancy pigeon that originated in the mid-18th century in Königsberg, East Prussia (now Kaliningrad, Russia). This breed is a product of meticulous breeding and is known for its distinctively colored head and attractive feathering. It is a member of the Tumbler group of pigeon breeds, which are characterized by their acrobatic flying abilities, although the Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler is primarily bred for its aesthetic qualities rather than flying performance.
History and Origin
The Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler was developed in the city of Königsberg, which was a hub for pigeon breeding and fanciers. The breed’s development involved selective breeding practices that focused on enhancing the coloration and feather patterns of the birds. The breed’s history is intertwined with the cultural and social aspects of pigeon keeping in the region, where breeders took pride in creating pigeons with distinct and desirable traits.
Physical Description
Key Data
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Königsberg, East Prussia |
| Primary Use | Ornamental |
| Body Size | Medium |
| Head Coloration | Black, Red, White, Yellow, Blue |
| Eye Color | Pearl or Dark (in white birds) |
| Beak | Short, thick, and stumpy |
| Feathering | Resembles a gull, with unique feather patterns |
| Conservation Status | Not specified, but not considered at risk |
Appearance
The Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler is a medium-sized pigeon with a distinctive head coloration that can come in black, red, white, yellow, and blue. The breed’s feathering is said to resemble that of a gull, but with more intricate patterns and a more ornamental appearance. The beak of the Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler is short, thick, and stumpy, which is a common trait among Tumbler breeds.
Eye Color
The eyes of the Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler are typically pearl-colored, with a small pupil. However, white birds of this breed may have dark or bull eyes. The eye cere, which is the soft skin surrounding the eyes, can range from pale flesh to red in color.
Behavior and Temperament
The Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler is known for its good flying skills, although it is primarily bred for its appearance rather than its performance in the air. The breed is described as very tame, which makes it a popular choice among pigeon fanciers who appreciate both the beauty and the docile nature of their birds.
Breeding and Care
Breeding Königsberg Colour-head Tumblers requires attention to detail, as the goal is to produce offspring with the desired head coloration and feather patterns. Care must be taken to ensure that the birds are healthy and that their unique physical traits are preserved through selective breeding. The breed is not known for any specific health issues, but like all pigeons, they require a clean environment, a balanced diet, and protection from predators and diseases.
Cultural Significance
The Königsberg Colour-head Tumbler holds a place of cultural significance in the history of pigeon breeding. The breed is a testament to the dedication and skill of pigeon fanciers who have maintained and enhanced its characteristics over centuries. It represents a living piece of the historical city of Königsberg and the traditions of pigeon keeping in the region.
