Curly Haired Pigeon (Frillback) 101 - All You Need to Know (2024)

Pigeons have been domesticated for thousands of years. However, among the many breeds of pigeons, one that stands out for its unique and captivating appearance is the Frillback pigeon.

So, what is a Curly-Haired Frillback pigeon? The Frillback pigeon is a breed of domestic pigeon. It is characterized by its distinctive crest of feathers that are curly frilly and almost look like a mane. These curls set the Frillback apart from other breeds, making them an attractive choice for bird enthusiasts and hobbyists.

If you’re fascinated by the avian world and are looking for a new breed to add to your collection, keep reading.

Curly Haired Pigeon (Frillback) 101 – All You Need to Know About their History

The Frillback pigeon is a breed of domestic pigeon with a rich history. Pigeons have been domesticated for thousands of years, and the Frillback pigeon is believed to have originated in Asia. The breed is believed to be a descendant of the rock pigeon, the wild ancestor of all domestic pigeons.

Frillback pigeons were recognized through selective breeding, with breeders working to enhance specific traits over many years. This breed was initially bred for show purposes and was prized for its elegant appearance.

Throughout history, Frillback pigeons have been highly valued for their unique and distinctive look. They continue to be popular among bird enthusiasts and hobbyists today.

Physical Characteristics of Frillback Pigeons

Here are the visible characteristics that distinguish this bird:

• Head: It is round and plump, with a full, rounded crest of feathers. The crest comprises feathers grown in a spiral pattern in a few breeds. And the majority will just have a regular crest.
• Beak: The beak of the Frillback pigeon is short and stubby, with a slight downward curve. This beak is ideally suited for the bird’s diet, which consists of grains and seeds. The beak is also solid and sturdy, allowing the bird to crack open hard shells to get to the nutritious seeds.
• Eyes: The eyes of the Frillback pigeon are large and bright, with a bold and expressive gaze. They can convey a wide range of emotions, from happiness to fear.
• Muff: It is on the bird’s neck and made of feathers grown in a frilly, curly pattern, much like the crest on the bird’s head.
• Frill: The frill of the Frillback pigeon is this breed’s most distinctive and recognizable feature. The frill is made up of feathers grown in a spiral pattern.

This creates a frilly, curly appearance, unlike any other breed of domestic pigeon. The frill is located on the feathers and adds to the Frillback’s charming and captivating appearance.

• Size and Weight: This bird is a medium-sized breed of domestic pigeon, with an average weight of around 350-450 grams. The Frillback is larger than many other breeds of domestic pigeons, which makes it a substantial and impressive bird.
• Color: Frillback pigeons come in various feather colors, including black, blue, brown, cream, and white. Some various patterns and markings can appear on the feathers, including bars, checks, and spots, which add to the Frillback’s unique and diverse appearance.

Personality and Behavioral Traits of the Curly-Haired Pigeon

Fraillback pigeons have the following traits:

Affectionate and Social

Frillback pigeons are known for their affectionate and social personalities. They enjoy human interaction and form close bonds with their owners, seeking attention and affection. These birds are gentle, friendly, and easy to handle, making them great pets for families and individuals.

Intelligent

These birds are also capable of learning and adapting to new situations. They quickly recognize their owner and are responsive to commands, making them great candidates for training.

Active and Playful

Frillbacks are curious birds, making them great pets for owners with a spacious outdoor area to explore. These birds are also playful and energetic, always on the move and seeking new adventures.

Protective

These species are protective of their territory and young. They stand by their mate and offspring, fiercely defending their family.

Calm and Quiet

In addition to their active and playful nature, Frillback pigeons are also calm and quiet birds. They are low-maintenance pets that do not require much attention and are not prone to excessive noise or aggressive behavior.

Care and Maintenance Requirements for Frillback Pigeons

Here is what you need if you are planning to domesticate this bird:

Housing

Frillback pigeons require a spacious and secure cage or aviary for their living space.

• The cage should be made of strong and durable material, such as stainless steel or powder-coated wire, and be large enough for the bird to move around freely.
• So, the minimum size recommended for one bird is 2 feet by 2 feet by 4 feet.
• The cage or aviary should be placed in a quiet and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and strong winds.
• Provide plenty of perches, toys, and other items to keep the bird entertained.
• Regular cleaning of the cage or aviary is essential, as pigeon droppings can create a hazardous environment if not cleaned properly.

Diet

• You need to provide a balanced diet that includes a variety of seeds, grains, and other foods. High-quality pigeon feed is recommended, along with fresh water that should always be available.
• The diet should also be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, spinach, and apples, to provide additional vitamins and minerals.
• To avoid diseases and contamination, you must give the birds fresh feed and water daily.

Health and Hygiene

• Maintain a clean living environment for the bird. This includes regular cleaning of the cage or aviary and avoiding overcrowding to prevent diseases.
• Monitoring the bird’s behavior and appearance is also essential.
• Seek veterinary care if any changes or symptoms of illness are noticed, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal droppings.

Exercise

Frillback pigeons require plenty of exercises to stay healthy and active.

• Providing a spacious outdoor area for the bird to fly and play in, such as a flight cage or aviary, is essential.
• The outdoor area should be secure, with a roof to protect the bird from predators and inclement weather.
• Provide toys and other items to keep the bird active and entertained. This includes perches, swings, ladders, puzzle feeders, and other interactive toys.

Watch this video to have more information about this pigeon.

Why Should You Consider a Frillback Pigeon Over Other Species?

Here is why you should consider petting this species over clothes:

• Unique and attractive appearance: Frillback pigeons have a distinctive appearance that sets them apart from other breeds. With their curly feathers and vibrant colors, they are sure to turn heads and catch the eye of anyone who sees them.
• Low maintenance: Unlike some other breeds, Frillbacks are relatively low maintenance. They do not require extensive grooming or specialized care. They are ideal for those who do not have much time to devote to their pigeons.
• Good Temperament: Frillback pigeons are generally good-natured and easy to handle. They are affectionate and enjoy human interaction.
• Good Health: These species are known for their excellent health and are relatively hardy compared to other breeds. They are less prone to diseases and can adapt to various environments.
• Versatile: Frillback pigeons can be used for various purposes, from being kept as pets to being shown in competitions. They are also suitable for racing and homing, making them ideal for those who want to participate in pigeon sports.
• High Intelligence: They can learn new tricks and commands relatively quickly. The birds are also quick learners and can easily adapt to new situations, making them ideal for training and teaching.

If you’re interested in learning more about pigeon breeding and health, you might find our articles on pigeon egg hatching and healthy pigeon droppings informative. Our article on pigeon egg hatching provides insights into the incubation period and care of baby pigeons, while our article on healthy pigeon droppings explores what to look for in terms of color, consistency, and odor to ensure that your birds are healthy. Check out these articles to learn more about the fascinating world of pigeons and how to successfully breed and care for them.

FAQs

Here are answers to common questions about curly-haired pigeons:

Conclusion

Curly Haired Pigeons are unique and exciting birds with many desirable qualities that make them great pets for enthusiasts and families. Their physical characteristics and behavioral traits make Frillbacks relatively easy to care for and maintain.

As seen in the above curly-haired pigeon (Frillback) 101 write-up, frillback pigeons are worth it for their beauty, adaptability, and personality. These birds are intelligent, and you may find it fun having such an avian friend as your companion.