The Valencian Figurita pigeon is a fancy breed from Spain. It was developed over many years of selective breeding, and actually originated in Valencia, Spain.
It is a pretty old breed and originally developed hundreds of years ago. It is believed that these birds or their ancestors were introduced by the Moors during their occupation (which ended in 1492).
The breed is promoted by the Valencian Figurita and Italian Owl Club in the United States, and promoted in Netherlands by the Figurita Club Nederland. And the breed is promoted in Germany by the Figurita-Movchen-Club Deutschland.
Actually the Valencian Figurita pigeon along with other domesticated pigeon breeds, all are descendants of the rock pigeon. The breed was threatened with near-extinction in the 20th century, during the government of General Franco.
However, the breed was actually named for it’s bright eyes. The word ‘Figurita‘ means ‘dainty‘ or ‘petite‘, which is a good description of this bright eyed bird. It is one of the smallest of the many fancy pigeon breeds. Read more information about the breed below.
Origin And History Of Valencian Figurita Pigeon
The Valencian Figurita pigeon breed originated in the Valencia region of Spain. It is well known for it’s elegant appearance, small size and spirited personality. The development of this pigeon breed can be traced back several centuries. It is believed that this breed was developed by Spanish pigeon fanciers in the Valencia region.
Those pigeon fanciers selectively bred pigeons to achieve a specific combination of traits. Their goal was to create a small, lightweight pigeon breed with a graceful appearance and an animated demeanor.
Characteristics
Valencian Figurita pigeon is a smaller sized bird. And it is one of the smallest of the many fancy pigeon breeds. It is available in a wide variety of colors.
Most common colors are ash-red, black, blue, blue and red grizzle, dun, silver, yellow and white. It also appears in the patterns bar, check, and spread.
These birds have bright eyes, sharp angular head and a well defined breast with frilled chest feathers. As a smaller sized breed, average body height of these birds is around 12 cm.
The mature Valencian Figurita pigeon on average weight between 150 and 190 kg. Photo and info from RightPet and Wikipedia.
Housing Requirements
Like many other domestic pigeon breeds, the Valencian Figurita pigeons need a clean, airy, spacious and comfortable home to stay healthy and happy. Ensure that their house is well-ventilated for providing fresh air and also for protecting them from drafts and extreme weather.
Dietary Requirements
All poultry birds require good and balanced food for good health and good production. Valencian Figurita pigeon is not an exception. They also require good and nutritious food. Like many other pigeon breeds, they also love to eat a mix of grains, seeds and pellets.
Along with providing them with good quality and nutritious food, it is also very necessary to provide them grit for their good digestion. Because grit helps the pigeons to break down food in their stomachs. Always try to provide them with enough clean and fresh drinking water depending on their demand.
Reproduction/Breeding
Breeding Valencian Figurita pigeon is relatively easy and simple. Just choose healthy and active pairs for good reproduction results. The birds (both male and female) will build a nest together.
Generally, the female pigeons typically lays two eggs. And both male and female take turns keeping them warm (incubation process) until they hatch in about 18 days. Both male and female take the responsibility for feeding their babies.
Behavior/Temperament
The Valencian Figurita pigeons are known for their calm behavior and friendly temperament. Like many other breeds, these birds are generally very easy to handle and they enjoy being around people.
Caring
Taking good care of these birds is very important. But their caring process is very easy and simple. Their caring process involves providing them a clean, safe home, a balanced diet and regular health check-ups. Clean their house on a regular basis and ensure that their house is spacious enough.
Always try to provide them clean and fresh water and a mix of grains, seeds and pigeon pellets for proper nutrition. Perform regular health checkups and always check them for signs of illness. And perform regular vaccinations.
Uses
Valencian Figurita pigeon is mainly raised as a show bird. But it is also good for flying purpose.
Popularity And Price
The Valencian Figurita pigeon is popular among the bird enthusiasts. It is popular mainly for it’s small size and elegant look, and also for it’s lively behavior. The breed is often shown in pigeon competitions.
But, in terms of pricing, exact price of these birds can vary depending on numerous factors such as age, color and breeding quality. But they are usually more expensive than most common pigeon breeds, mainly for it’s unique qualities. Average price can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per bird.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of these birds is generally between 10 and 15 years.
Pros And Cons
Like many other pigeon breeds, these pigeons also have some pros and cons. Here we are trying to list the most notable pros and cons of Valencian Figurita pigeon.
Pros:
- Small size, requiring less space.
- Elegant appearance.
- Good personality and lovely behavior.
- Require relatively less maintenance.
- These birds have both cultural and historical values.
Cons:
- Sometimes, these birds may require specific care, especially during breeding.
- They may be more sensitive to extreme temperatures.
- Cost of these birds is relatively much higher than many other common pigeon breeds.
Special Notes
The Valencian Figurita pigeon is a very alert bird. It is mainly a show bird, but also used for flying purpose.
These birds are very intelligent and are highly regarded as a naturally tame pet with steady nerves. They do extremely well in the loft, sitting tight on their nests even if visitors stop by, because they aren’t bothered by humans or other birds.
The breed is known for its small size, angular-shaped head, frilled chest feathers, and perky disposition. They are very tame and make excellent pets.
However, review full breed profile of this breed in the following chart.
| Breed Name | Valencian Figurita |
| Other Name | None |
| Breed Purpose | Exhibition, flying, pets |
| Special Notes | Beautiful birds, small sized, angular shaped head, frilled chest feathers, very alert, good for show and flying purposes, good as pets, very intelligent, very tame |
| Breed Class | Small |
| Weight | 150-190 grams |
| Climate Tolerance | Native climates |
| Flying Ability | Excellent |
| As Pets | Good |
| Color | Most common colors are ash-red, black, blue, blue and red grizzle, dun, silver, yellow and white. But also appear in the patterns bar, check, and spread. |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | Spain |
