The Shiraz Tumbler, also known as the Shakhsharli, is a breed of domestic pigeon known for its distinctive flying patterns and physical characteristics. Originating from Shiraz in south-central Iran, this breed is a medium-sized pigeon that exhibits a unique flying behavior, which includes low flying, turning around the loft, and flying as a kit, or group. The Shiraz Tumbler is not only appreciated for its flying abilities but also for its aesthetic appeal, coming in various colors including black, blue, red, and yellow.
Origin and History
The Shiraz Tumbler has its roots in the city of Shiraz, Iran. It is a breed that has been developed over many years through selective breeding. The breed is also known by other names such as Afghani Shirazi pigeon, lahouri, and domgir (in Isfahan). The history of pigeon keeping in Iran is rich and dates back many years, with pigeons being kept for decoration, as a food source, and for their dry droppings. Ancient pigeon houses, known as pigeon towers, are a testament to the historical significance of pigeon breeding in the Iranian plateau.
Physical Characteristics
The Shiraz Tumbler is a medium-sized pigeon breed with a distinctive appearance. It is characterized by its original or common colors, which include black, blue, red, and yellow. The breed is known for its saddle markings in different colors such as black and brown, with a marking that extends from the head all the way through the back.
Table of Key Data
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Common Colors | Black, Blue, Red, Yellow |
| Body Type | Saddle markings, medium build |
| Flying Ability | Low flyer, capable of flying for a couple of hours |
| Origin | Shiraz, Iran |
| Other Names | Afghani Shirazi pigeon, lahouri, domgir |
| Use | Flying, ornamental |
Behavior and Flying Abilities
The Shiraz Tumbler is known as a “low flyer,” which means it does not reach high altitudes during flight. Typically, it can fly for a couple of hours at most. The flying pattern of the Shiraz Tumbler involves a combination of turning around the loft, going to a distance, and repeatedly coming back. They fly in groups, which is referred to as flying in a kit.
Uses and Utility
Traditionally, the Shiraz Tumbler, like many other pigeon breeds in Iran, has been kept for various reasons, including ornamental purposes, as a food source, and for their droppings, which are used as fertilizer. The breed’s flying abilities and aesthetic appeal make it a popular choice among pigeon fanciers.
Genetic and Scientific Research
The Shiraz Tumbler has been the subject of scientific research, particularly in the study of navigation abilities in rock pigeon breeds. Transcriptome resequencing data from the Shiraz Tumbler has provided insights into the role of the hippocampus and the contribution of the GSR gene to pigeon magnetoreception, which is a key factor in their navigation ability.
Conservation and Breeding
As a breed, the Shiraz Tumbler is not listed as endangered, and it is commonly found in its native region. It is also popular among pigeon enthusiasts around the world. The breed continues to be developed through selective breeding, with a focus on enhancing its flying abilities and physical characteristics.
Interesting Facts
- The Shiraz Tumbler is part of a larger group of tumbler pigeons, which are known for their ability to tumble or roll over backwards in flight, a trait that has been observed in domesticated pigeon breeds for centuries.
- The tumbling behavior seen in tumbler pigeons like the Shiraz Tumbler is believed to be a survival skill developed to evade aerial attacks by predators such as birds of prey.
- The breed’s flying style, which includes flying as a kit, is not only a spectacle but also a social behavior that reflects the flocking nature of pigeons.
