Features of Tippler pigeons
Pigeons have long conquered the hearts of people both in appearance and in manners. But in the variety of breeds, each has its own characteristics. For example, the English Tippler pigeons became famous for their appearance and ability to fly tirelessly for a long time. Breeders have bred them for this very purpose. These birds are unique and unique in their own way.
Tippler pigeons
Origin and appearance
The breed, known among specialists in pigeon breeders, appeared relatively recently, in the twentieth century, in England, but the noble and refined appearance became the reason for universal love for these birds. Tipplers are extremely rare in Russia, more in European countries. The description of the pigeons is as follows:
- the average size;
- well-developed muscular chest;
- very short neck;
- beak long enough;
- eye color from white to pearlescent;
- prominent nostrils;
- different color of plumage from yellow-red to black-blue;
- strong wings firmly pressed to the body;
- a chic tail consisting of no less than 12 feathers.
If according to the description it seems that the external characteristics of the pigeons are ordinary, then this is only until you see their magnificent athletic build and attractiveness. Most of all, the breed is valued by breeders for its endurance. In any weather, pigeons can fly for more than 16 hours without stopping, and in 1975 a record was recorded: the bird's flight lasted almost 21 hours. English Tipplers prefer to fly in flocks, creating intricate circles, then gaining altitude, then descending. The most interesting talent is the ability to soar in the air without the help of the wind. The bird moves so easily and naturally, as if it makes no effort to fly.
Training is the key to success
Although flying qualities are inherited, mastery can only be achieved through regular and persistent training. There are several simple rules with which you can teach birds the correct flight technique:
- conduct workouts at the same time;
- postpone feeding until the end of the flight;
- to separate from the rest those who fly badly or incorrectly.
Only systematic training and good care allow birds to fly all day, until dark at night. Tipplers are able to climb high enough that they are not visible from the ground. Some of this has a fear of heights and then they drop sharply. It's great if this happens not far from home, but sometimes the birds sit in unfamiliar places where they can no longer be found. Many pigeon breeders are afraid to let them go, but the Tipplers are long-flying pigeons that cannot live without long flights, because it is this quality that made them popular all over the world. There are even international competitions for the duration of flights among pigeons.
Why don't they fly
It also happens that the Tipplers don't fly. Then it is required to inspect the bird for injury or other damage to the wings. If, after the examination, some kind of ailment became obvious, an urgent need to call a veterinarian.
There are other reasons for refusing to go up into the sky:
- Fatigue from hunger. This is due to a fast metabolism. If the whole point is only in this, then it is enough to give the bird food and the opportunity to rest.
- Pigeons are rather shy and stressful to factors such as bright lights and loud sounds. In this case, it is better to leave the victim in a quiet place for a while.
- Sometimes diseases lead to the loss of flying abilities, but after treatment everything is fine.
What conditions are needed
In principle, English Tipplers are not demanding on care and for life they need a simple dovecote. The main thing is to provide for the convenience of departure from it. It would also be nice to place a box, preferably painted in a light color, in the area of the dormer. It will be an excellent reference point and will help the birds to return home. In addition, a place should be separated for sports pigeons, young inexperienced and where nests for incubation will be located. There will be no problems with nutrition, since almost any food will do. You just need to be careful about the freshness of the food: it is the diet that affects the flight qualities of pigeons.
In Britain itself, small-sized dovecotes are often found, where this breed lives, right on the street in the middle of high-rise buildings. Tiplers are very capable birds, they lend themselves well to training. In a situation where the house is located in a private plot, it is better to place it so that the whole area has a good view. The drawer itself must be securely fixed to the roof or use a retractable drawer.
When creating a dovecote on the roof, you will need a tightly fixed trellis box. This design is suitable for both adults and young, indicating the landing site. For night flights, it is important to provide backlighting: the darkness not only creates additional difficulties for the birds, but also scares them. Proper lighting in the poultry house is set so that the light is bright and clearly visible, as well as the structure of the dovecote itself does not cast a shadow.
Do you need bait
Another point is the use of a dropper. The dropper is a decoy pigeon. The opinions of pigeon breeders about him differ. Some believe that it is better to do without it, and the second that it is this method that makes it easier to control the birds and that then the dovecote can be placed anywhere. It's up to everyone to decide, but it's worth a try.
Tipplers are a breed that is becoming more and more popular every year and all thanks to endurance, external beauty and perseverance. Easy care and feeding is also a plus. The winged ones have many excellent qualities, which will undoubtedly bring the joy and pleasure of breeding them and watching them fly.