The Parlor Roller Pigeon is a breed of domesticated pigeon that is known for its unique ability to perform somersaults on the ground. This breed, along with other varieties of domesticated pigeons, is descended from the rock pigeon (Columba livia). Parlor Rollers have been bred over many years through selective breeding to develop their characteristic rolling performance.
Origin
The Parlor Roller Pigeon is believed to have originated in Scotland and was brought to the United States and England in the 1850s. It is thought to have been developed from the Ground Tumbler Pigeon, which is a breed that can perform backflips in the air. Over time, the selective breeding of Parlor Rollers has led to their inability to fly, but instead, they excel in rolling along the ground.
Breed Characteristics
- Size: The Parlor Roller is an average-sized pigeon, weighing between 7 and 10 ounces.
- Color: Parlor Rollers come in a variety of colors, but they are not bred specifically for color or markings.
- Ability: Unlike other pigeon breeds, Parlor Rollers cannot fly. Instead, they perform continuous somersaults or rolls on the ground.
Temperament
Parlor Rollers are known for their unique rolling performance and are often bred and kept for their entertainment value. They are calm and docile birds, making them easy to handle and care for. Due to their inability to fly, they are typically kept in aviaries or dedicated pigeon lofts where they can safely roll on the ground without any obstacles.
Preferred Living Conditions
Parlor Rollers require an appropriate living environment that allows them to roll on the ground freely. A spacious aviary or pigeon loft with a smooth surface such as concrete or short-grass turf is ideal for these birds. It’s important to provide them with ample space to roll without any obstructions or hazards that may cause injury. Additionally, they need access to fresh water and a balanced diet to maintain their health.
Usage
Parlor Rollers are mainly bred and kept for their unique rolling ability. Their rolling performances are often showcased in exhibitions, shows, and competitions where they are judged based on the quality and continuous nature of their rolls along the ground. Since they are unable to fly, they are not used for racing or homing purposes like some other pigeon breeds.
| Key Data | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Scotland, brought to the United States and England in the 1850s |
| Size | Average-sized, weighing between 7 and 10 ounces |
| Color | Comes in a variety of colors, not bred for color or markings |
| Ability | Cannot fly, performs continuous somersaults or rolls on the ground |
| Temperament | Calm and docile |
| Preferred Living Conditions | Spacious aviary or pigeon loft with a smooth surface, access to fresh water and a balanced diet |
| Usage | Mainly bred for rolling performances in exhibitions, shows, and competitions |
