West of England Tumbler
West of England tumbler is an old British fancy pigeon linked to the tumbler pigeons kept in western England and the West Country. It is a domestic form of Columba livia, now bred chiefly for exhibition type and complex color classes rather than for the dramatic aerial tumbling that gave the group its name. Almond, kite, agate, mottled, and related patterned birds are especially associated with the breed, and the color can change noticeably as a bird molts and ages.
Good West of England tumbler breeding is as much about understanding color genetics as it is about selecting a smart, balanced pigeon. Almond-based matings in particular should be planned carefully, because some combinations can produce weak or poorly marked young. These pigeons need the same fundamentals as other fancy breeds: a dry loft, clean nest bowls, predator security, grit and mineral access, and enough room to stay fit. Prospective owners should ask whether a line is bred for show only or also retains any flying ability.
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
