The Starling pigeon is a breed of fancy pigeon from Germany. It is a very old breed, and it was being bred in South Germany and Thuringia since the 1600s.
The Starlings and all other breeds of domesticated pigeons are descendants from the rock pigeon.
The breed was very popular in it’s native area, actually to the fanciers of Thuringia proffered the smooth head variety, and the blue variety was also popular.
Only the black birds were recognized and were preferred in peak and shell crests in South Germany, especially in Schwaben. However, read more information about the breed below.
History And Origins Of Starling Pigeon
The Starling pigeon breed traces it’s origins to the early nineteenth century in Germany. It is a ornamental breed and it was developed through selective breeding of wild rock pigeons and domestic varieties. Main aim of the breeders of this breed was to enhance the vivid father patterns and distinctive starling-like appearance.
After development, the breed gained popularity across Europe and eventually worldwide. Today, the Starling remain a favorite pigeon breed among the pigeon enthusiasts and continue to be bred for both show and companionship.
Characteristics
Starling pigeon is an average sized breed with stronger appearance. It is similar in appearance to the common field pigeons, but is more slender in body type.
Head of these birds is smooth, longly round, lightly arched and crested. Their color of the eyes can vary depending on the varieties.
The white-head variety has dark eyes, full colored head variety has fire red eyes, dark head variety has cere plum colored eyes and the white head variety has flesh to red colored eyes. Color of their beak can also vary depending on the variety.
Neck of the Starling pigeon is of medium long sized and carried forward from shoulders. The wings are nicely closed and the tail is closed and just a trifle longer than flight tips.
These birds have full and tick feathers which are laying smoothly. Their legs are short, fully clean and usually with black nails but the monk marked variety has light nails. Common colors of the Starling pigeon are: black, blue, yellow and red.
Housing Requirements
Like many other pigeon breeds, the Starling pigeons also require well-ventilated and spacious housing system to maintain their health and beautiful appearance. Ample space inside their housing system also help the birds to exercise and also to prevent overcrowding (overcrowding can lead to stress and disease).
Make the house secure enough to protect the birds against predators. And ensure they have perches and nesting areas to cater to their natural behaviors.
Cleaning the house on a regular basis is also very important, because healthy environments helps the birds to stay healthy and active. So, try to clean their house on a regular basis to prevent parasites and infections.
Dietary Requirements
Feeding the pigeons with very good quality and nutritious food is very important. Like many other pigeon breeds, these birds also require a balanced diet for maintaining good health and vibrant plumage.
Generally, the diet of these birds consists of high-quality grains and seeds such as rice, corn, millet, wheat etc. Supplement their diet with legumes like peas for providing essential protein.
Try to provide them fresh vegetables and fruits occasionally to fulfill their necessary vitamins and mineral deficiencies. Also try to add oyster shells to their diet to fulfill calcium deficiencies. Also provide your birds with grit to aid digestion.
Along with providing the birds with very good quality and nutritious food, always provide them enough clean and fresh drinking water. Adequate clean and fresh drinking is a must for keeping the birds hydrated.
Reproduction/Breeding
Breeding the Starling pigeons is relatively easy and simple. Successful breeding of these birds involves careful selection of healthy and active birds. Breeding season of these pigeons generally begins in spring.
Provide the selected pairs with a comfortable nesting area within their housing system. The female Starlings generally lay two eggs per clutch. And both parents take the responsibility to incubate the eggs for about 17-19 days.
After successful hatching, both parents feed the squabs a nutrient-rich pigeon milk for the first few days. And they gradually transform to regurgitated food as they grow.
Behavior/Temperament
The Starling pigeons are well known for their friendly and social behavior/temperament. They are generally very calm and they can adapt themselves well to different environments.
Caring
Taking good care of the Starling pigeon is very important. Provide them a clean, safe, and spacious housing system for your birds. Clean their house on a regular basis to stay free from parasites and other health problems.
Always try to provide them with very good quality and nutritious food containing grains, seeds, fresh vegetables and fruits. Always provide them enough clean and fresh drinking water as per their demand.
Perform regular health checkups and take necessary steps if you notice anything uncommon. Keep good contact with a vet in your area and call him/her if you notice anything wrong.
Uses
The Starling pigeon is raised for both flying and show purposes.
Popularity And Price
The Starling is a pretty popular pigeon breed among the pigeon fanciers. They are popular mainly for their striking iridescent plumage and gentle temperament. However, exact price of these birds depends on numerous factors and it can vary from place to place. Average price of a Starling pigeon can range from just $50 to several hundred dollars. You can consult with any of your local or nearest pigeon breeders to know more about it’s price and availability.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Starling pigeon is between 10 and 15 years. Although, they can even live longer if you can take good care of these birds.
Pros And Cons
Like many other domestic pigeon breeds, the Starling pigeons also have some advantages and disadvantages. Here we are trying to list the top and most notable pros and cons of Starling pigeons.
Pros:
- Beautiful and attractive appearance
- Calm and friendly disposition
- Exhibit strong social behaviors
- They can adapt themselves well to various different conditions
Cons:
- Require regular caring
- Initial high cost
Special Notes
The Starling pigeon is a pretty hardy and strong breed, and is an excellent flyer. Along with using for flying and show purposes, the breed is also very good for raising as pets. Review full breed profile of this breed in the following chart.
| Breed Name | Starling |
| Other Name | None |
| Breed Purpose | Flying, exhibition |
| Special Notes | Beautiful, active, strong, good for flying, good for exhibition, good for raising as pets |
| Breed Class | Average |
| Climate Tolerance | Native climates |
| Flying Ability | Excellent |
| As Pets | Good |
| Color | Many, but mainly black, blue, red and yellow |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | Germany |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Popularity of pigeon farming business is increasing gradually in many countries throughout the world. That’s why many people are trying to learn more about this business. Especially, the beginners ask us many questions about starting and operating a successful pigeon farming business. However, here we are trying to list the most common questions about Starling pigeons and trying to answer them. Hope you will find your answer. Don’t hesitate to ask us if you have more questions.
How long do Starling pigeons live?
Average lifespan of the Strasser pigeons is between 10 and 15 years. Sometimes can even live long in proper care and management.
