Maltese

Origin

The Maltese pigeon is believed to have originated in Austria in the 1800s, which later became part of Germany. The breed was developed through a crossing of a German variety and the French Baghdad pigeon.

Breed Characteristics

The Maltese pigeon is a medium-sized bird with a puffy appearance and a unique color variety. It has deep-set eyes, with yellow eyes being common, except for the white Maltese pigeon which has blue eyes. The beak is stout, medium in length, and slightly bent. The neck is long and slender, leading to a broad chest. The back is moderately broad and short, and the wings are composed of short-flight feathers. The legs are long, straight, and feather-free. The breed comes in various colors, including silver, brown, blue, red, yellow, dun, hammered brown, and more.

Temperament

Maltese pigeons are gentle and friendly birds. They are highly social and can get along well with other birds, especially if raised together from a young age. However, they may become aggressive toward other pigeons or birds if they perceive them as a threat, particularly during breeding or protecting their young ones.

Preferred Living Conditions

Maltese pigeons are adaptable birds that can thrive in various habitats, including agricultural fields and urban areas. They are ideal for keeping as pets due to their sociable nature. Proper housing is essential to provide them with ample space for flight. Regular cleaning and disinfection of their enclosure are necessary to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites.

Usage

Maltese pigeons are primarily kept as pets and for exhibition purposes. Their unique physical appearance and friendly temperament make them stand out as a beautiful breed. They are also suitable for breeding due to their ability to be good parents and their low equipment and supply requirements.

Key Data

Interesting Fact: Maltese pigeons are often referred to as the ″monks of the pigeons world″ due to their puffy appearance.