Raising Barb Pigeons can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for both hobbyists and professional breeders alike. These beautiful birds, with their attractive uncommon appearance, make them highly sought after for exhibition purposes. Barb Pigeons also have good flying abilities, which adds another dimension of enjoyment when raising them.
Barb Pigeon Profile
| Breed Name | Barb Pigeon |
| Other Name | Also known as English Barb and Barbary Pigeon |
| Breed Purpose | Exhibition |
| Special Notes | Beautiful birds, attractive uncommon appearance, very good for exhibition purposes, relatively calm |
| lifespan | 7-10 years |
| Breed Class | Small to medium |
| Climate Tolerance | Native climates |
| Flying Ability | Good |
| As Pets | Good |
| Plumage: | Come in various colors such as black, white, red, or silver |
| Eyes | Large eyes that offer excellent vision |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | United Kingdom |
Origin and History
The Barb pigeon, also known as the English Barb and Barbary Pigeon, is a fascinating breed of domestic fancy pigeon hailing from the United Kingdom. With its unique characteristics and physical attributes, this bird stands out among its counterparts in the avian world. During the 16th century, European explorers discovered these beautiful pigeons and brought them back to their homelands.
They quickly gained popularity among pigeon fanciers due to their elegant feathering and distinctive pompadour-like crest on top of their heads. Over time, selective breeding led to further refinement of the breed’s characteristics. Breeders focused on enhancing features such as feather quality, color variations, beak shape, and body conformation. Today, there are several different varieties within the Barb Pigeon breed, each with its unique traits.
Characteristics and Physical Attributes
The Barb pigeon is known for its distinct and captivating physical attributes. This breed stands out with its unique appearance, making it a popular choice for exhibition purposes. These birds display an array of colors and patterns on their plumage, adding to their overall beauty. Another notable characteristic of Barb pigeons is their elegant posture.
With a graceful neck arch and upright stance, the Barb pigeons exude elegance wherever they go. Their slender bodies add to this regal appearance as they strut around confidently. In terms of temperament, these pigeons are relatively calm compared to some other breeds. This makes them easier to handle and train if you choose to keep them as pets or participate in exhibitions.
Size and Lifespan
These medium-sized birds have a weight range that is just right for their impressive appearance. Males of this breed typically tip the scales between 13 and 15 ounces, while females are slightly lighter at 10 to 12 ounces. The size of Barb pigeons makes them easy to handle and care for without being too delicate.
In addition to their size, it’s important to consider the lifespan of Barb pigeon birds. On average, Barb pigeons can live anywhere from 7 to 10 years. This means that when you raise a Barb pigeon, you’re making a commitment to their well-being for several years. With proper care and attention, these pigeons can thrive and bring joy for many seasons.
Uses
Barb pigeons have a variety of uses that make them highly sought after by pigeon enthusiasts. One common use for Barb pigeons is in exhibition shows. With their unique and attractive appearance, these birds are sure to catch the judges’ attention and stand out among other breeds. Another use for Barb pigeons is as pets. These birds can be tamed and trained to become friendly companions, delighting their owners with their beauty and gentle nature.
In addition to being show birds and pets, Barb pigeons also have historical significance. They were originally bred in the United Kingdom for sport flying competitions known as “pigeon racing.” Some individuals may choose to raise Barb pigeons for breeding purposes. By carefully selecting pairs based on desired characteristics such as coloration or feather patterns, breeders can work towards creating new variations within the breed.
Feeding and Nutritional Needs
These birds have specific nutritional needs that should be met to keep them thriving. A high-quality pigeon feed should form the basis of their diet. Look for a feed specifically formulated for fancy pigeons or show pigeons, as these will contain the necessary nutrients they require. Additionally, supplementing their diet with vegetables can provide added nutrition.
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It’s important to note that Barb pigeons are not grazers like some other bird species. They do not require constant access to food throughout the day. Instead, offering small meals twice a day is sufficient. Water is another crucial component of their diet. Fresh, clean water should always be available for them to drink.
Breeding
The process of breeding Barb pigeons involves carefully selecting compatible pairs, creating suitable nesting conditions, and providing proper care throughout the incubation period. To begin the breeding process, it is important to choose healthy birds with desirable traits such as coloration and feather quality. Pairing birds that complement each other in terms of physical attributes can help produce offspring with desired characteristics.
Next, creating a suitable nest box is crucial for successful breeding. The nest box should be spacious enough to accommodate both parents comfortably and allow them to incubate the eggs undisturbed. Adding soft nesting materials like straw or shredded paper can provide insulation and ensure a cozy environment for the eggs.
During the incubation period, it is essential to maintain optimal temperature levels in the nesting area. Regular monitoring of these conditions helps ensure the proper development of the embryos inside the eggs. Once hatched, caring for the young pigeons involves feeding them a balanced diet consisting of pigeon feed supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables. Providing clean water at all times is also vital for their growth and well-being.
Eggs and Incubation
These birds lay two eggs at a time, which adds extra excitement to the breeding process. Once the eggs are laid, it’s important to provide them with proper incubation conditions for successful hatching. The incubation period for Barb pigeon eggs lasts approximately 18 days. During this time, it’s crucial to maintain a stable temperature and humidity level in the incubator.
As each day passes, anticipation builds as we eagerly await the arrival of new life from within those tiny shells. And when that magical moment finally arrives, witnessing the first cracks and hearing the faint peeps of newborn pigeons is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The process of egg hatching and caring for the young ones requires patience and attention to detail. Ensuring that they receive proper nutrition, warmth, and protection is essential for their healthy development.
Care and Management
Firstly, providing a suitable living environment is crucial. Barb pigeons should be housed in spacious cages or aviaries that allow them to move around comfortably. Ensure that the housing is well-ventilated and protected from extreme weather conditions. Maintaining proper hygiene is also essential for their health.
Regularly clean the cages or aviaries, removing any droppings or uneaten food promptly. This will help prevent the diseases and keep the birds happy and healthy. Feeding pigeons with a balanced diet is vital for their nutritional needs. Please provide them with a mix of seeds, grains, fruits, and vegetables to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.
Price
Price is a major factor to consider when raising Barb pigeons. The cost of purchasing these birds can change depending on different factors like the breeder, location, and the quality of the pigeon. On average, the price of a Barb pigeon can range from $50 to $150.
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Conclusion
The importance of raising Barb Pigeons lies in appreciating their beauty, enjoying their company as pets or show birds, and playing a part in maintaining this unique breed’s existence for future generations to appreciate. Barb Pigeons require minimal maintenance. They are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both experienced pigeon enthusiasts and beginners.
Note: The images presented in this post are intended solely for representation purposes. The images are meant to serve as visual aids and should not be relied upon as accurate representations of their real-life counterparts.
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