Maltese Pigeon Breed Guide: Everything You Need To Know

The Maltese pigeon is a breed of fancy pigeons that originated in Malta. It is characterized by its small size and unique appearance. As a breed that has been around for over a hundred years, the Maltese pigeon has a fascinating history and characteristics.

Their unique appearance is also appealing, with their roundish head and bill and their eyes placed high on their forehead. The Maltese pigeons are a curiosity and fascination for both pigeon enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

Let’s examine the Maltese pigeon breed, its origins, characteristics, and care requirements.

Characteristics of Maltese Pigeons

Maltese pigeons are a beautiful breed with unique features and characteristics that make them stand out. The following are some of the key features of the Maltese pigeon breed.

Physical Appearance and Notable Features

Maltese pigeons are classified as medium-sized birds with an average weight of 500-600 grams.
They have a uniquely shaped head with a small, curved beak that gives them an adorable look.

Their eyes are round and bold, and their feet are feathered.
Maltese pigeons have long, slim wings and short tails
They have a smooth and silky plumage that ranges in color from pure white to bluish-black with iridescent highlights.

Common Colors and Patterns

Although white is the most common color for Maltese pigeons, other colors include black, red, and yellow.
Some Maltese pigeons mix several colors, while others have one primary base color with an added pattern.
The most common pattern found on Maltese pigeons is the checkerboard pattern, which involves a mix of small squares of different colors on the body.

Differences Between Male & Female Maltese Pigeons

The male Maltese pigeon is usually larger and more muscular than the female.
Males are also more vocal and have a coarser voice than females.
The eyes of a male pigeon are usually more prominent and often have a more vibrant hue.

Male Maltese pigeons tend to have a more prominent chest than females, while females have a larger pelvic area.

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How to Care for Maltese Pigeons?

Maltese pigeons are a unique breed highly sought-after for their beauty and gentleness. If you have decided to take up caring for Maltese pigeons, it’s essential to understand their specific requirements to keep them healthy and happy.

Dietary Requirements and Feeding Tips

Maltese pigeons require a balanced diet comprising seeds, grains, legumes, and fruits.

It’s advisable to avoid giving them any form of processed food or junk food.
Provide them with fresh water daily to ensure they stay hydrated.
Avoid overfeeding them as this can lead to obesity, fatty liver, and other health problems.

Housing and Environmental Considerations

Maltese pigeons are indoor pigeons, and they should have a dedicated space in your home where they feel safe and secure.
The ideal temperature range for them is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keeping their living space clean and free from drafts can lead to several health issues.

Provide them with ample space to move around and stretch their wings.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Maltese pigeons are not highly active and do not need significant exercise.
However, providing them with some activity is essential to stimulate them physically and mentally.

You can achieve this by providing them with toys and interactive activities that engage their minds.

Health Concerns and Common Ailments

Maltese pigeons are susceptible to several ailments, including respiratory infections, mites, and feather plucking.
Ensure your pigeon’s living space is free from dampness and drafts, which can cause respiratory infections.

Regularly check for signs of illness or injury and seek veterinary attention if necessary.

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Breeding Guide Maltese Pigeons

Breeding Maltese pigeons can be a rewarding experience. But it requires a lot of care and attention to detail. Here’s what you need to know about the breeding process.

Overview of The Breeding Process

Breeding Maltese pigeons involves the following steps:

Selecting suitable breeding pairs
Providing a suitable nesting area
Incubating the eggs for around 18 days

Taking care of the chicks until they’re ready to leave the nest

Selecting Suitable Breeding Pairs

Choosing the right breeding pairs is essential for breeding healthy Maltese pigeon chicks.

Look for pigeons that are healthy and active

Choose pigeons with similar characteristics, such as color and size
Avoid breeding siblings, as this can result in genetic defects in the offspring
Ensure the pigeons are appropriate for breeding (around 1-2 years old).

Incubation and Hatching Information

After selecting suitable breeding pairs, the eggs must be incubated and hatched.

The eggs should be incubated for around 18 days
Maintain a consistent temperature of around 99-100 degrees Fahrenheit

Keep the incubator clean and dry to prevent bacteria growth
Be prepared to assist with hatching if necessary, but avoid interfering unless necessary

Training and Socializing Maltese Pigeons

Owning Maltese pigeons requires proper training and socialization to ensure that they become well-adjusted pets. Here are some useful techniques for training and domesticating Maltese pigeons, their interaction with other pigeons and humans, and their behavioral traits and tendencies.

Techniques for Training and Domesticating

Training Maltese pigeons requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.

Start training the birds at a young age as they are more receptive to learning new behaviors.
Use a reward system to reinforce positive behaviors, such as offering treats or verbal praise.

Begin training in a quiet, distraction-free environment to help the pigeon focus on the task.
Gradually introduce the bird to new environments and situations to help them adjust and socialize.

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Interaction with other Pigeons and Humans

Maltese pigeons are naturally social creatures and enjoy interacting with their owners and other birds.

Provide ample socialization opportunities with other pigeons to prevent boredom and loneliness.
Introduce them to a varied diet, including fruits and vegetables, to encourage interaction during feeding times.
Spend quality time with your pigeon daily to promote bonding and trust.

Train your bird to interact with humans positively, such as stepping onto your hand or shoulder.

Behavioral Traits and Tendencies

Maltese pigeons possess unique behavioral traits and tendencies that owners should be aware of.

They are intelligent birds that require mental stimulation and activities to prevent boredom.

Maltese pigeons are known for their active behavior, love for flying, and playfulness.
They may exhibit territorial behavior towards other birds or humans, especially during breeding seasons.
As social birds, they may become distressed or aggressive when separated from their mate or flock.

Conclusion

The maltese pigeon is a beautiful breed with a rich history. Whether you are an experienced breeder or just starting out, if you are looking for a unique breed to add to your flock, the maltese pigeon is definitely worth considering.

With its striking appearance, friendly temperament, and relatively easy-care needs, it’s no wonder why this breed has won the hearts of pigeon enthusiasts across the world.

While they may not be the most common breed, their cultural significance and stunning looks make them a fascinating and worthwhile addition to any pigeon collection.