Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed summary
The English Short-Faced Tumbler is a medium-sized fancy pigeon distinguished by its very short, flat face and rounded head. It combines a calm, affectionate temperament with a precise, short tumbling action, typically performed in short, controlled rolls rather than long sorties. This breed is valued primarily for shows, exhibitions, and companionship, though capable of limited aerial display. Size and conformation: body length usually around 32–38 cm; weight commonly 320–420 g. Plumage: highly varied, with patterns and colors including self-colors, blue bar, check, and pied varieties. Care requirements include a clean loft, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stable living conditions. Reproduction: usually kept as a pair; clutch size 1–2 eggs; incubation about 17–19 days; fledging occurs roughly 18–23 days after hatching.
Detailed origin
Originating in England in the 19th century, the English Short-Faced Tumbler was developed by breeders seeking a compact, short-faced form within the tumbler family. It emerged from crossing established short-faced lines with existing tumblers to emphasize the characteristic face and a steady, short-flight display. The breed gained popularity across Europe through pigeon clubs and shows in the late 1800s and early 1900s, leading to formal recognition by many national clubs and show standards. Today it remains a staple in fancy pigeon circles where its distinctive profile and reliable performance are prized.
Detailed description
Morphology: compact, robust body; short, broad beak; very short face with a pronounced forehead; round, alert eyes; strong breast and a slightly arched back; wings carried tightly against the body; tail moderate in length. Gait and posture: upright carriage with a compact silhouette; exhibits a short, level glide during flight with quick, shallow rolls typical of the tumbling family. Color and pattern: broad variety of colorations including solid, checker, and pied patterns; all standard color varieties seen in many fancy pigeons can appear in this breed. Temperament and handling: generally calm, affectionate, and adaptable to well-managed lofts; suitability for beginners is good when provided with proper housing and routine care.
Recognised varieties for this breed
- English Short Face Tumbler self black
- English Short Face Tumbler dun
- English Short Face Tumbler yellow
- English Short Face Tumbler red
- English Short Face Tumbler harlequin
- English Short Face Tumbler kite
- English Short Face Tumbler golden dun
- English Short Face Tumbler agate in red and yellow
- English Short Face Tumbler silver barred
- English Short Face Tumbler with shoulders
- English Short Face Tumbler bearded in black
- English Short Face Tumbler bleu barré
- English Short Face Tumbler white-headed
- English Short Face Tumbler deroy