The Magpie pigeon is a breed of fancy pigeon that has a white body and face, pink legs and feet, red eyes, and a long tail. The breed was developed in England in 1879 by Henrietta Madden-Mitchell, the daughter of an Irish linen merchant. There are two other varieties of magpie pigeon:
One with dark brown or black body, flock number 312; the other with all white feathers save for a small spot above each eye. The first variety is primarily kept as pets while the second is mainly used as carriers by superstitious Scots who believe them to be unlucky.
Magpie pigeons are notorious for banding together to steal shiny items and hoard them. It is believed that Henrietta Madden-Mitchell was the first person to breed magpie pigeons, though she claims that they were developed by her father years before her reign. However, no evidence of these birds appeared in any shape or form until after his death.
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How to identify magpie pigeons?
Magpie pigeons are a breed of fancy pigeon that has a white body, pink legs and feet, a long tail, and red eyes. As mentioned above they come in either of two varieties one with dark brown or black body and the other with all white feathers save for a small spot above each eye. Magpie Pigeon is a very popular bird in the aviary world, especially in northern Europe, where it is considered one of the most popular breeds.
Magpie Pigeon is one of the most popular pigeons in Europe, with over a million pairs kept by British aviculturists. In the UK mainland, it is a popular glamour show pigeon, as well as being kept as a pet. It has long been used as a fancy pigeon but is now being increasingly used for other tasks.
Behavioral characteristics:
Magpie pigeons often gather in large flocks and sometimes form “rings” or “repellent rings” to keep other birds away from the desired location. They will also sometimes sit in quiet places, waiting for humans to come by before diving at them with some sharp pecking and plucking of their clothes.
If startled, they go into a frenzy of flight, digging for food and chasing small animals with loud squawking. They have been known to twist their heads 180 degrees and spread out their long tails like fans when attacking predators.
Uses:
In the UK and other parts of Europe, magpies are used for racing, and in Belgium, some are trained to detect problem eggs in hatcheries.
As pet:
Magpie pigeons are often kept as pet birds and are valued for their soft plumage, calm disposition, and easy to train. They have a long lifespan and many can be found in household flocks with several generations having been born.
Magpie pigeons are very popular show birds, prized for their clowning and mimicry of humans as well as their brightly colored plumage. Magpie Pigeon is one of the most popular breeds of pigeon in Europe.
Pigeon cage size:
Minimum cage size of 42″ wide, 27″ deep, 30″ high for one or two (mated) pigeons and 32″ wide, 32″ high, and 21″ deep for one or two doves. One the other system, the Box size made of wood is 12″ wide, 12″ deep, 12″ long, and 08″ high for one pair.
Special Considerations:
Ostriches need a constant supply of fresh water and when given a choice will drink up to 65 liters (16 gallons) per day. In captivity, to maintain proper hydration. They are capable of holding their heads upside down for long periods, thus allowing better access to water. Budgies and canaries require sand or grit for digestion and to grind protein in their gizzards.
Best 10+ information:
| Breed Name: | Magpie pigeon. |
| Other Name: | Blue rock dove, English Magpie Pigeon, Magpie. |
| Breeding Purpose: | Mating (pairing), Breeding, Parenting. |
| Origin: | England, USA. |
| Breed Purpose: | Companion, Show. |
| Food: | Small seeds, fruits, and vegetables. use vitamin Enriched seed to prevent deficiencies. Broiler breeders may need special grains. |
| Color: | White, black. |
| Size: | Medium, small, large. |
| Flying Ability: | Medium, Classic. |
| Egg Laying: | Average of 48 eggs a year. |
| The number of eggs: | Usually 4–6 eggs, but can be as many as 12. |
| Health Problems: | They can be susceptible to diseases such as polyomavirus (PRV). |
| Climate Tolerance: | Cold. |
| Temperament: | Gentle, calm. |
| Rarity: | Common. |
| Average life expectancy: | Around 10 years. It commonly lives 7–12 years, |
