According to studies and research, there are almost 350 species of pigeons. These breeds exist worldwide. If you go to research them, most of these bird species are found in every part of the world.
Some pigeon varieties are unique to specific regions, often because they have been selectively bred there over time. Enthusiasts of these particular pigeon breeds are well-versed in their history and significance.
In this article, we will focus on the Ice pigeon, a breed that is both common and strikingly beautiful. We will delve into its various types, its origin, its distinctive characteristics, and much more.
Table of contents
- A few words about ice pigeon
- How does it look?
- Behavior
- How to breed?
- Ice pigeons as a pet and breeding
- Ice pigeon care
- FAQs
- Final thoughts
A few words about ice pigeons (history)
Numerous fancy pigeons are available in Germany, and the ice pigeon is also one of them. It is renowned as being Polish: Lazurek and German: Eistaube. The German pigeon is one of the oldest species of pigeon.
And if we come to know about the history of this particular bird, people developed it many decades ago. In South Germany, this specific breed appeared for first time. The earliest hybridization occurred in Saxony and Silesia, where it first emerged.
Later, from eastern Germany, it migrated to western Poland. All varieties of domesticated pigeons, including the ice pigeon, are derived from the wild or feral rock pigeon. According to legend, ice pigeons were crossed by Charles Darwin in 1856 to establish their coloration.
How does it look?
All pigeons are beautiful, but if we specifically talk about the ice pigeon, it is beautiful and average in height and famous for its ice-blue coloration. Moreover, it also has many species that differ from each other in terms of colors and feathers. But by nature, these are findable in a pale gray color.
Furthermore, their eyes are significant in all aspects. Likewise, their eyes are essential. Ice pigeons’ eye colors are mainly changed from other breeds depending on the variety. The version with black bars and check feature looks that range in color from orange to bright orange. And the eyes of every other species are black. Their neck size varies from medium to large when it is stretched forward. The beak is dark in color, medium to long, and slender.
These birds have broad, thick chests that reach forward. Moreover, these pigeons comprises of long wings that rest on their tail, and their back is broad between their shoulders before gradually dipping downward and becoming narrower towards their bottom.
Talking about legs, the legs are well-fleshed and well-fitting but not overly long on the muffed, and their tail is long and well-closed. Additionally, there is an Ice Pigeon variation with clean legs.
Behavior
Even though they make lovely pets, these pigeons might not be the ideal choice for complete beginners. Before you take on the ice pigeon, you should start with baby-homing pigeons who have never gone away.
They become relatively docile (non-skittish), quiet, and non-combative in temperament if you normalize them to the commotion of daily life and do not shut them away all the time.
If used as decorative pigeons, they are not incredibly high-maintenance birds, but you do need to keep them clean. In last, to preserve the quality of their feathers, keep them in more extensive, airy outdoor areas.
How to breed?
Create nesting containers the size of feed bags, measuring approximately one foot in length. Fill each container with nesting material, and replace it with a fresh bag when it gets dirty. Additionally, consider acquiring affordable nesting bowls with a ten-inch diameter. To offer multiple options for breeding pairs, provide two nest boxes. In cooler climates, utilize materials such as hay, wood chips, pine needles, grass, and twigs as bedding.
You can breed your ice pigeons like other pigeons. Ensure the bedding you use is soft and not too rough to prevent discomfort for the baby birds after they hatch.
Ice pigeons as per breeding
The ice pigeon is one of the best breeding pigeons, as is true of all domesticated birds created for a common need. In reality, most ice pigeon owners will rely on this source of income.
People will pay a significant amount for the progeny if you can breed an ice pigeon with the bird’s highly desired colors or even a show winner. It is also a well-liked pet breed, so selling it should be simple.
Most pigeons, including the Ice Pigeon, have the excellent trait of being incredibly easy to reproduce. They produce viable eggs very quickly, and ice pigeons raise their young well.
The ice pigeon is a fantastic pet bird. First, it is quite challenging to locate a pigeon that looks much better than this one. Most people certainly want their pigeons to be as attractive as possible.
It will be an even more enjoyable pigeon breed because it comes in many colors. The ice Pigeon is one of the gentlest and most obedient pigeons you can keep, which is why it is so adored as a pet.
They take to humans reasonably well, making it one of the species that you could potentially train to love people as an adult, but it will be simpler if you grow the babies by hand from the time they hatch.
They usually interact well with other pigeon breeds, but we wouldn’t advise housing many different types together because conflicts are likely to arise. If you decide to keep an ice pigeon as a pet, you should know that it has excellent flying ability. It must therefore be carefully secured when locked up to assure its protection.
Ice pigeon care
Ice pigeons make good pets that is why people usually keep them at home. Here are tricks to care for them.
Choosing the Right Environment
To care for an ice pigeon, start by providing them with the appropriate environment. Ensure that their cage or aviary is spacious, secure, and well-ventilated. Pigeons need room to move around, stretch their wings, and feel comfortable. Use non-toxic materials for the cage floor, and regularly clean it to maintain hygiene. Place the cage away from direct sunlight and drafts to keep your ice pigeon at a comfortable temperature.
Proper Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for the health of your ice pigeon. Offer a balanced diet consisting of high-quality pigeon feed, which can be found at most pet stores. You can supplement their diet with seeds, grains, and fresh vegetables like spinach, lettuce, and peas. Ensure they have access to clean, fresh water at all times. Pigeons also enjoy grit, which aids in digestion and provides essential minerals.
Social Interaction
Ice pigeons are social birds and thrive on interaction. Spend time with your pigeon daily, talking to them, and gently handling them to build trust. If you have more than one pigeon, provide ample space to prevent overcrowding and territorial disputes. Observing their behavior and body language can help you understand their needs and emotions.
Health Care and Hygiene
Regular health check-ups are crucial for your ice pigeon. Look out for signs of illness such as lethargy, changes in appetite, or abnormal droppings. If you notice any issues, consult a veterinarian with avian experience. Maintain good hygiene by cleaning the cage and changing the water daily. Additionally, provide your pigeons with access to a shallow bath for them to bathe in, as this helps them keep their plumage clean and healthy.
Mental Stimulation and Exercise
Ice pigeons are intelligent birds that need mental stimulation and exercise to stay happy. Provide toys and perches in their cage to keep them engaged. Let them out of the cage in a secure, pigeon-proofed room for daily exercise and flying. Supervise their free time to prevent accidents or escape. This mental and physical stimulation will help prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
FAQs
What is the original color of the ice pigeon feather?
Ice pigeons often have a light grey tint. Their copious amounts of powder, which coats the entire bird’s plumage in whitish dust and goes by the Polish name Lazurek, give them an even paler appearance.
Are ice pigeons affected by pigeon fever?
Pigeon fever is a type of fever that affects animals, not birds. Pigeon fever is an infection brought on by the soil-dwelling bacterium Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis, primarily transmitted by flies. Different strains of pigeon fever typically affect horses, miniature mammals, goats, sheep, etc. Both breeds of cattle are possible.
What is the difference between pigeon wings and pigeon feathers?
While feathers are epidermal patches covering a bird’s body, forelimbs are the forelimbs of birds designed for flight. While the entire structure of feathers varies depending on the function, feathers differ in design for various flying methods.
Do people take ice pigeons for pigeon flying?
It is excellent for display and aesthetic purposes. Additionally, it is perfect for breeding pets. People use ice pigeons for pigeon shows because they are a fancy pigeon breed.
Final thoughts
Beautiful pigeons include those of the ice kind. There are many different varieties of this species of pigeon, and they are frequently seen in Germany. “Ice Pigeon” refers to the blue hue in all species’ feathers. These incredibly docile birds are perfect as pets, showpieces, or decorative pieces. These birds may be raised like any other pigeon, which makes rearing them relatively easily. Because of Charles Darwin, ice pigeons are a prevalent breed and a widespread type.
