Takla Tumbler
The Takla tumbler, often called the Turkish Takla, is a traditional performing pigeon from Turkey and neighboring pigeon-keeping regions. The Turkish word takla refers to a somersault, and these birds are bred for aerial play: repeated backward flips, wing clapping, climbing, and controlled drops toward the loft in strong families. Takla pigeons are domestic Columba livia, not a single uniform show type; regional strains and family names may differ in size, feathering, muffs, crests, and color. In this breed, the reputation of the loft and the behavior of related birds matter as much as appearance.
Taklas are best treated as working performance pigeons. Youngsters are usually trained gradually from a secure loft, flown when weather and predator pressure are suitable, and fed to maintain muscle without making them heavy. Good breeders watch for stamina, orientation, safe landing habits, and a tumbling style that does not injure the bird. Buyers should be cautious of birds sold only for color or ornament, because the play that defines the Takla is inherited and developed through handling, training, and selection.
Colors: Almond, Ash Red, Bar, Barless, Black, Blue, Brown, Checker, Dilute, Dun, Grizzle, Indigo, Mottle, Opal, Pied, Recessive Red, Red, Silver, Splash, Spread, White, Yellow
