The Ancient Tumbler pigeon is a breed of domestic fancy pigeon which is also known as the Altstammer Tumbler. It is said to have originated around India.
This breed and other varieties of domesticated pigeons all are descendants from the wild or feral rock pigeon.
It is a very old breed of domesticated pigeons. And the name ‘Ancient‘ comes from the fact that this breed has been present since the 1700s.
The Ancient Tumbler pigeon is also known by some other names in different parts of the world. It is believed that ‘Dutch trading ships brought these birds from India to the Netherlands’.
And the breed was developed further in the Netherlands. Read some more information about this beautiful pigeon breed below.
Ancient Tumbler Pigeon Appearance
The Ancient Tumbler pigeon is a very small breed with broad head and wide and high forehead. It can either be plain headed or crested.
Body of this bird comprises of a broad chest which is rounded off and a short but wide back. It’s neck is medium in thickness and is a little shaky as well as curvy.
Common color of the eyes is pearl, or can be bull-eyed in whites. The ceres are refined and can be flesh to red in color.
Beak of the Ancient Tumbler pigeon is short, thick and very straight and is of flesh color. The legs are short and groused with white toe-nails.
The breed comes in black, blue, dun, red, yellow and the same colors in magpie markings. There are also Tigered birds available in black, red and yellow.
Average live body weight of the mature pigeon is around 140 to 155 grams. Photo and info from PigeonSpot and Wikipedia.
Uses
This pigeon is raised for both flying and exhibition purposes.
Special Notes
The Ancient Tumbler pigeon is a very hardy and strong breed of domesticated pigeons. It was previously used as a flying breed, but now raised mainly as an exhibition breed.
It is noted mainly for it’s extremely short face with round head. Currently it is available in many countries throughout the world.
The breed is easily managed and pretty good for raising as pets. However, review full breed profile of the Ancient Tumbler pigeon in the following chart.
| Breed Name | Ancient Tumbler |
| Other Name | Also known as Altstammer Tumbler |
| Breed Purpose | Exhibition, flying |
| Special Notes | Beautiful birds, attractive appearance, very good for exhibition purpose, good for flying purpose, hardy, strong, noted for it’s extremely short face with round head, easily managed, good for raising as pets |
| Breed Class | Very small |
| Weight | About 140-155 grams |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Flying Ability | Very good |
| As Pets | Good |
| Color | Many, but mainly black, blue, dun, red, yellow and the same colors in magpie markings |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | Probably India |
Am looking for some ancient tumbler hens. I thought I purchased a pair last yr but their boys. That person isn’t doing birds anymore. Do you know or have any? I raise American mini crests, another rare breed.