Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed Summary
The Syrian Frill is a distinctive show pigeon valued for its lush crest and balanced body. It is a medium-sized bird with a calm temperament, well-suited for exhibition settings. Key standards include a full, symmetrical crest that often covers the eyes, a compact body, and clean feather edges. Weight typically ranges from 300 to 450 g. Crest length commonly measures 6 to 25 cm, though individual lines vary. Lifespan in captivity is about 5 to 12 years. Color varieties are numerous, including self-colors, pied, and patterned varieties.
Origin Detailed
Origin: The Syrian Frill likely originated in the Levant region (Syria and surrounding areas) during the 18th to 19th centuries. It was developed by Syrian breeders and was later exported to Europe through trade routes in the late 19th century, where fanciers refined the crest to emphasize a dramatic crown while maintaining a compact body. Cross-breeding with other frill lines contributed to crest size and shape.
Detailed Description
Description: The bird has a medium, sturdy body with smooth wing lines and a prominent crest that forms a halo around the head. Crest feathers are long and can obscure the eyes if the bird is not groomed. Plumage color is highly variable, including self-colors and pied or patterned varieties. Eyes are typically orange or dark. Beak is short; legs are feathered depending on the line. Temperament is generally calm and tolerant of handling, making it suitable for shows. Care requirements include regular grooming to maintain the crest, careful plumage maintenance, and a balanced diet of seeds, grains, and fresh greens. Health considerations include sensitivity to feather maintenance and moulting; keep in a clean, dry housing to prevent feather damage.