CARLSBAD, N.M.-
Handlers from across New Mexico and west Texas presented 350 breeds of pigeons during the Pecos Valley Pigeon Club’s fall show, a rare opportunity for pigeon enthusiasts from around the region to gather.
“Pigeon shows are not very popular in the United States,” club secretary Mickey Jackson said at Saturday’s show. “They are very popular in Europe.”
Pigeon shows are conducted much like a dog show.
Each type of bird is classified among various breeds–such as fancy, performing and utility breeds. Each bird is judged against others and the winners of each breed type are judged against each other to compete for best in show.
“I have seen a lot of good birds today,” judge Royce Perry said. “The breeders have really outdone themselves and I am very proud of the quality of the birds.”
Perry looks at the birds from inside the cage, then takes them out and inspects their wings and other parts. If the bird is a “pouter” or “cropper,” he makes a pigeon call to encourage them to puff their chests up with air.
Jackson said many breeders sell their birds at the show. Depending on the breeder’s reputation, he said the birds can sell from $25 to $1,000.
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Information from: Carlsbad Current-Argus,
