The Romanian Magpie Tumbler is a breed of domesticated pigeon known for its distinctive black and white plumage. Like other Magpie Pigeon varieties, it is descended from the Rock Pigeon (Columba livia). This pigeon breed is famous for its ability to perform tumbling flights, making it a popular choice among pigeon fanciers.
Origin
The Romanian Magpie Tumbler, also known as Jucător Baltat de Bucuresti, originated in Romania. It is believed to have been developed around the 1900s, although the exact date is unknown. The breed was likely created through selective breeding of imported pigeons from Germany and Denmark.
Breed Characteristics
The Romanian Magpie Tumbler is a slender pigeon with an upright stance. It has a sharp angle upward in its back. The body, excluding the head, neck, breast, back, saddle, and tail, is white, while these parts are black with an iridescent, metallic sheen. The breast cut should be sharp and evenly defined. The most sought-after color in this breed is black, but other color variations, such as yellow, blue, dun, and silver, can also be found.
Here are some key characteristics of the Romanian Magpie Tumbler:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 33-35 cm long |
| Weight | 300-320 grams |
| Plumage | Black and white with metallic sheen |
| Beak | Long and flesh-colored |
| Flight Behavior | Tumbling flights |
Temperament
The Romanian Magpie Tumbler is known for its calm and good temperament. It is a gentle and docile bird, which makes it an ideal choice for beginner pigeon fanciers. This breed is also known to be reliable parents and breeds well.
Preferred Living Conditions
The Romanian Magpie Tumbler can be kept in pigeon lofts or aviaries. It requires a sufficient amount of space to fly and exercise. Additionally, like all pigeons, it needs access to fresh water and a balanced diet to thrive.
Usage
The Romanian Magpie Tumbler is primarily bred for its flying abilities and tumbling flights. It is often kept by pigeon fanciers who are interested in aerial acrobatics and performance. This breed is also kept for exhibition purposes due to its unique plumage and distinctive appearance.
Interesting fact: Some individuals within the Romanian Magpie Tumbler breed have been known to display exceptional homing instincts and have been used as messenger pigeons in the past.
