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The Swing Pouter is a distinctive breed of fancy pigeon, known for its unique flying style and appearance. This breed, like all domesticated pigeons, descends from the rock pigeon (Columba livia). It is particularly popular in Germany and the Czech Republic, where it has been refined and celebrated for its temperament, flying ability, and striking physical characteristics.
History and Origin
The Swing Pouter has its origins in the regions formerly known as Silesia and Bohemia. Over the years, the breed has diverged into two main types: the German Swing Pouter and the Czech Swing Pouter. These two types share a common ancestry but have been developed into distinct breeds with their own specific standards and characteristics.
Physical Description
The Swing Pouter is noted for its upright stance and the ability to inflate its crop, which is a common trait among pouter pigeons. The breed exhibits a variety of colors and markings, with a deep glossy shine on the plumage of the crop being particularly typical for the German Swing Pouter. The stance of the pigeon is determined by the location of the legs, with the German type requiring a body length of 3/5 before the legs and 2/5 behind, resulting in an upright stance. The Czech type, on the other hand, has a ratio of 2/3 before the legs and 1/3 behind, leading to a flatter and slightly more upright position.
Behavior and Temperament
Swing Pouters are known for their good temperament. They are not aggressive and can be kept and bred with other pigeon breeds in the same loft. They are also recognized as good parents, raising their young without the need for feeders. The breeding season for these birds begins in late February. The Swing Pouter is a breed full of temperament and action, which is especially evident in their flying style.
Flying Style
The flying style of the Swing Pouter is what sets this breed apart. Both the German and Czech types are known for a particular flying action called ‘stellen,’ which refers to their positioning in the air. The Czech Swing Pouters are believed to perform better in flight than their German counterparts, although this has not been extensively studied. The wings of the Swing Pouter clap loudly during flight, and at the end of the season, the wing tips on the flight feathers are often worn and frayed due to this unique flying behavior.
Key Data
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Conservation Status | Common |
| Country of Origin | Germany and Czech Republic |
| Breed Group | Fancy |
| Upright Stance Ratio | German: 3/5 before legs, 2/5 behind; Czech: 2/3 before legs, 1/3 behind |
| Temperament | Good, non-aggressive |
| Breeding Season | Begins in late February |
| Flying Style | ‘Stellen’ – positioning in the air, loud clapping of wings |
Interesting Facts
- The Swing Pouter’s flying style is not just for show; it is a breed characteristic that is deeply ingrained and valued by fanciers.
- The breed’s name, “Swing Pouter,” is derived from its unique flying action, which includes a swinging motion when leveling off in flight.
- The German Swing Pouter is particularly noted for the glossy shine of its plumage, which is a sought-after trait in show pigeons.
- Despite their active flying style, Swing Pouters are known to be good breeders and parents, capable of raising their young without assistance.
- The Czech Swing Pouter is described as a somewhat primitive ‘farmers cropper,’ indicating its robustness and strength in flying.
Conservation and Breeding
Swing Pouters are common in their countries of origin and among pigeon fanciers worldwide. Breeders are responsible for maintaining the breed standards and characteristics, particularly the flying style that defines the Swing Pouter. Conservation of these traits is largely the responsibility of the breeders, as the flying style cannot be judged in a show pen.
