The Schmalkalden Moorhead is a breed of fancy pigeon developed over many years of selective breeding. It is classified as a type of Tumbler pigeon and is one of the oldest pigeon breeds mentioned in Moore’s book of 1735. This breed, along with other domesticated pigeons, is a descendant of the rock pigeon (Columba livia).
Origin
The Schmalkalden Moorhead pigeon was developed in the town of Schmalkalden, located in Thuringia, Germany. It was developed in the early 1900s in the Thüringer and Saxon Mountain areas.
Breed Characteristics
The Schmalkalden Moorhead pigeon is a small-sized breed with an arched head that is somewhat high in the forehead. It has dark eyes and a long neck with ruffled neck feathers. The breed also has long wings and a long tail. The beak is long and black for black and blue varieties, while it is flesh-colored for red and yellow varieties.
Temperament
The temperament of the Schmalkalden Moorhead pigeon is not widely documented. However, like other domesticated pigeons, it is likely to be calm, gentle, and amenable to handling and interaction.
Preferred Living Conditions
The Schmalkalden Moorhead pigeon is a domesticated breed and is typically kept in pigeon lofts or aviaries. It is important to provide a secure and spacious living environment for the pigeons to ensure their well-being. The loft should have proper ventilation, lighting, and temperature control to maintain a comfortable and healthy environment for the birds.
Usage
The Schmalkalden Moorhead pigeon is primarily bred for exhibition purposes, as it is known for its unique and attractive appearance. Its arched head, ruffled neck feathers, and long wings and tail make it a visually striking bird. The breed is popular among pigeon enthusiasts and is often showcased at pigeon shows and exhibitions.
Interesting Facts
- The Schmalkalden Moorhead pigeon is one of the oldest pigeon breeds mentioned in Moore’s book of 1735.
- It was developed in the early 1900s in the Thüringer and Saxon Mountain areas of Germany.
- The breed is known for its arched head, dark eyes, and long neck with ruffled neck feathers.
- The Schmalkalden Moorhead pigeon is primarily bred for exhibition purposes due to its unique and attractive appearance.
| Key Data | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany, especially Thuringia and the Saxon Erz mountains |
| Classification | Type of Tumbler pigeon |
| Breed Characteristics | – Arched head – Dark eyes – Ruffled neck feathers – Long wings and tail – Long and black beak for blacks and blues, flesh-colored for reds and yellows |
| Temperament | Not widely documented |
| Preferred Living Conditions | Pigeon lofts or aviaries with proper ventilation, lighting, and temperature control |
| Usage | Exhibition |
