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The Syrian Turbiteen, also known as the Barbarisi Owl Pigeon, is a breed of fancy pigeon developed over many years of selective breeding. Pigeons are among the oldest domesticated birds, and the Syrian Turbiteen is a notable member of the fancy pigeon group, which is valued for its unique physical characteristics and behaviors. This breed is particularly known for its ornamental features, flying ability, and historical significance.
Origin and History
The Syrian Turbiteen is believed to have originated from the Middle East, particularly Syria, and its name suggests a connection to the region. The breed’s history is intertwined with the culture and tradition of pigeon keeping in the Middle East, where pigeons have been bred for both utilitarian and ornamental purposes for centuries.
Historical Significance
Pigeons have been kept in the region for various reasons, including as messengers, for sport, and for their aesthetic appeal. The Syrian Turbiteen, with its distinctive appearance, has been a part of this tradition, often associated with the hobby and competition aspects of pigeon keeping.
Physical Description
The Syrian Turbiteen is a small-sized pigeon, with an average weight of about 11 ounces. It is characterized by its stout and fairly short beak, plain head, clean legs, and a well-developed neck frill. The breed exhibits a Turbiteen pattern, which includes a white body plumage with colored wing shields, frontal spot, and cheek markings.
Table of Key Data
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Weight | ~11 ounces |
| Head | Plain-headed |
| Legs | Clean-legged |
| Neck Frill | Well-developed |
| Beak | Stout and fairly short |
| Body Plumage | White with Turbiteen pattern |
| Wing Shields | Colored |
| Frontal Spot | Colored |
| Cheek Markings | Colored |
| Flying Ability | Flying breed in Syria |
| Colors | Black, blue, red, yellow, some stenciled |
Behavior and Temperament
The Syrian Turbiteen is known as a flying breed in its native region of Syria. It is bred for its flying capabilities rather than strictly for color, which can vary among individual birds. The breed is still considered rare in the United States and other parts of the world outside its region of origin.
Flying Skills
As a flying breed, the Syrian Turbiteen is expected to have good endurance and agility in the air. The breed’s flying style and the duration of its flights are aspects that fanciers may focus on when breeding and training these pigeons.
Breeding and Care
Breeding the Syrian Turbiteen, like other pigeon breeds, requires attention to detail and adherence to certain practices to ensure the health and well-being of the birds. The following are seven steps recommended for successful pigeon breeding:
- A dry house protected from rain or snow.
- Separate houses for mated pairs and odd birds.
- A flypen for breeds that require one.
- A suitable feed ration protected from contamination.
- A suitable mineral ration protected from contamination.
- Water suitable for human consumption protected from contamination.
- Suitable nesting materials.
Neglecting any of these steps can lead to trouble, such as disease or parasite infestation.
Interesting Facts
- The name “Barbarisi” is an Egyptian word, suggesting that the breed may have been imported to Syria from Egypt.
- The breed was imported to the United States by Sam Shadeed from Damascus, Syria, in 1954.
- The head markings of the Syrian Turbiteen can vary, which is natural since they are bred for flying capabilities rather than strict adherence to color patterns.
