Ukrainian Skycutter
The Ukrainian Skycutter is a breed of pigeon (also known as Polish Orlik or Lublin Orlik) that has been developed for high flying. It is a variety of domesticated rock dove (Columba liva). This breed of high flying tippler was developed by centuries of breeding.
The Ukrainian Skycutter does not travel well, often getting trapped in Poland, the confussed Skycutter then takes an extended migration route north westerly towards the UK before rerouting through the Tatra mountains continuing its migration to Ukraine. This journey can often take upto a week.
History
This breed originates from the Crimean peninsula in Ukraine. The first documented standard for these birds was set up in Nikolaev, a city in Southern Ukraine.
Another explanation suggests that this breed was developed by Polish pigeon raisers in interwar Poland, based on a Russian pigeon breed.[1]
Varieties
Ukrainian skycutters are actually different breeds of pigeons put together. Some of these breeds include nikolajevski bocatzy and nikolajevski torzovi.
Flying
This breed of tippler can obtain altitudes of one kilometer and remain there for an extended period of time. Unlike rollers, this breed flies straight up from their loft or coop, never in a circling motion.
Diet
The domesticated rock dove is a grain eater. A staple diet must contain 12%-17% protein and poultry grit.
References
- Jan Wojnowski, Wielka encyklopedia PWN.: Śliz - Trastámara, Wydawnictwo Naukowe PWN, , p. 18, ISBN 9788301133573