Pigeon Breeds

Domestic Pigeon Breeds

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Pigeons have been domesticated by humans for thousands of years, primarily for the purpose of sending messages, sport, and as a food source.

Through selective breeding over many generations, more than 350 breeds of domestic pigeons have been created, with great variety in size, shape, color, and behavior.

While the rock pigeon is the common ancestor of all domestic pigeons, specialized breeds demonstrate the diversity that is possible through artificial selection.

Popular Pigeon Breed Groups

There are nine main groups of domestic pigeon breeds, categorized by their physical traits, country of origin, or special abilities.

01. Toy and Miniature Breeds

As their names suggest, these tiny pigeons have been bred to be kept for ornamental purposes. Weighing as little as 12 ounces, breeds in this group include the Figurita, Fairy Swallow, and Budapest Short Face Tumbler.

02. Color Pigeons Breeds

These birds have vibrant, multi-colored plumage as a defining characteristic. Well-known color breeds include the African Owl, Frillback, and Jacobin.

03. Performing Breeds

Developed for their ability to fly in decorative patterns, Performing breeds like the Tippler, Roller, and Birmingham Roller are a popular sight at pigeon shows and competitions.s

04. Utility Breeds

Used as messenger pigeons or for meat production, these hardy breeds tend to be larger and have excellent homing abilities. Common Utility pigeons are Racing Homers, Giant Runts, and French Mondaines.

05. Fancy Breeds

The largest and most diverse group, Fancy pigeons have unique body shapes, feather formations, and behavioral quirks bred for exhibition. Fantails, Pouters, and Trumpeters fall into this classification.

06. Oriental Frill Breeds

Native to the Middle East and Asia, these breeds are typified by their ability to fully invert their wings over their body. This group includes the German Modena, Blondinette, and Old Dutch Capuchine.

07. Indian Breeds

Hailing from India and Pakistan, these breeds are prized for their hardiness in hot climates. The Lahore and Fantail Darjeeling are popular Indian breeds.

08. European Breeds

Europe’s cold winters have shaped hardy, large breeds like the Giant Homer, structure Brussels Griffon, and crest-feathered Polish Lynx.

09. American Breeds

As hobbyist breeding increased in North America, distinctive breeds like the West of England Tumbler and Old Dutch Capuchine were developed across the Atlantic.

Popular Breed Spotlights

With hundreds of breeds to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which pigeon is the right one for your interests. Here are quick spotlights of five classic types and their defining traits:

Racing Homers

• Developed for: Racing/Homing
• Origins: 19th century Belgium
• Size: 12-16 inches
• Features: Powerful flying ability with slim builds, “homing instinct” to return home

Fantails

• Developed for: Ornamental/Exhibition
• Origins: Southeast Asia
• Size: 12-14 inches
• Features: 30-40 flowing tail feathers that can fully spread in a fan shape

Pouters

• Developed for: Exhibition
• Origins: 17th century Holland
• Size: Up to 18 inches
• Features: Inflated chest cavity that can be pumped up to impressive sizes

Jacobins

• Developed for: Ornamental
• Origins: 11th century Syria
• Size: 12-14 inches
• Features: Distinctive feather “hood” completely encircles head

Rollers

• Developed for: Performing
• Origins: 17th century England
• Size: 12-14 inches
• Features: Incredible rolling flight pattern where pigeons barrel roll downward through the air

Caring for Domestic Pigeons

Proper housing, nutrition, and health monitoring are key to having happy, thriving pigeon flocks. Lifespans average 10-15 years, but can extend to 20 years in ideal conditions. Here are some top care considerations:

Housing: Pigeons do well in large coops or lofts with free-flight areas, perches, and nest boxes. Both enclosed and open-air spaces allow them to engage in natural behaviors. Regular cleaning and disinfection helps control disease.

Feeding: A grain and seed diet, along with supplementary vitamins/minerals provides balanced nutrition. Fresh water should always be available. Young pigeons require a special milk-like substance called “pigeon milk” regurgitated by parent birds.

Healthcare: Vaccinations, antibiotics, anti-parasitic medications and treatments for injuries/illness should be administered as needed. Signs of common pigeon diseases need rapid response. Molting, stress, and poor nutrition negatively impact bird health.

With captivating good looks and engaging personalities, it’s easy to appreciate the allure of pigeons as hobby animals. From flashy color patterns to unbelievable aerial stunts, specialized breeds offer a unique way to enjoy avian companions.

Responsible care and housing lets them thrive while displaying their distinctive traits developed over centuries of dedicated breeding by pigeon fanciers across the globe.

Whether kept for performance, show qualities or ornamental purpose, few birds demonstrate the spectrum of diversity shown in the 350+ domestic pigeon breeds found worldwide.