King Pigeon

Looks how to spot one

feathers

Short, smooth, tight feathering with no crest or frills. The body is large, compact and cobby, with a broad chest and a short, stout neck.3

Personality what they are like

Kings are calm, gentle and easy to handle. They are not strong fliers and rarely panic, which makes them very relaxed around people. They get along well in mixed lofts and are not aggressive, though they may squabble over nest boxes during breeding. Their docile nature makes them suitable for supervised handling by children.34

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Low to moderate. Kings are heavy and poor fliers, so they need a secure loft with a covered run where they can walk, stretch and make short flights. They should not be given free flight because they are vulnerable to predators.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Low maintenance. Provide a shallow bath two or three times a week for self-cleaning. Check feet and legs for scale, sores or caked droppings. Inspect feathers for lice, mites and broken shafts. Trim overgrown nails and beak only if they cause problems.3

Home where they are happiest

A dry, draught-free loft with good ventilation, sound roofing and protection from rain and wind. Provide perches at varied low heights and enough floor and nest box space to avoid crowding. Secure all openings against cats, rats, hawks and other predators, as Kings cannot escape easily by flight.3

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Standard pigeon grain mix of corn, peas, wheat, sorghum and millet, with extra protein during breeding. Provide insoluble grit for digestion and a mineral or oyster-shell source for calcium. Clean, fresh water must always be available. Watch portions to prevent obesity.3

Company who they like around

Kings are social and do well in pairs or small groups. They are not aggressive and can live in mixed lofts. They bond with their keeper and show little fear once accustomed to handling. They are not suitable for free flight and must be kept in a predator-proof enclosure.3

The story where it all began

The King pigeon was created in the United States during the 1890s by Harry Baker, who crossed four older breeds: the Duchess for grace, the Homer for alertness, the Maltese for compactness and style, and the Runt for body and size. The aim was a dual-purpose bird that was both beautiful and productive for squab meat. By 1892 Baker was pleased with the result and called it the King of Pigeons. Around the turn of the century, C. Ray King in California developed a silver variety using similar stock but without the Duchess, leading to a more blocky type. The Silver King became common by 1921, and the American King Club later accepted additional colours including blue, dun, red and yellow. Today the King remains a popular show and utility breed worldwide.12

Recognised by the official bits

National Pigeon Association (USA)

Utility breed group1

American King Club

Maintains the breed standard for Kings5