1 86 
The Illustrated Book of Plgeons. 
article by Mr. J. W. Ludlow, who has had every opportunity of observing these birds in all their 
varieties, and becoming thoroughly acquainted with them. 
“ The number of pigeons which come under the head of Flying Tumblers are, in regard 
both to numbers and peculiarities, almost incalculable ; indeed, throughout the civilised world 
I may safely say Tumbler pigeons are known, and in most places appreciated, but in Great 
Britain alone so great is the love of them that the number is ‘ legion.’ These birds serve as a 
daily source of amusement to thousands of enthusiastic fanciers of the artisan, mechanic, and other 
classes of society. If confirmation of this were necessary, one need only traverse the streets of the 
chief centres of labour at mid-day, during the cessation of toil, to be convinced of the extra- 
ordinary interest taken in those general favourites. At a glance skyward, to any point of the 
compass, will be seen the little or big investment, the ‘all,’ in fact, of the most zealous of pigeon- 
fliers. Here and there, in front, behind, on all sides, high and low, may be seen innumerable 
flocks of these birds, going through their daily exercise above their respective habitations, each 
flickering host chosen for distinct and special peculiarities, in accord with the tastes of their owner, 
whose watchful eyes beneath are taking into account the merits of each individual specimen, and 
the lot collectively, and holding every one accountable for its actions on return to terra firma ; 
some condemned to rise no more, others to receive fresh favours and honours, and others permitted 
the enjoyment of another trial, with the hope of amendment, and so on. Nor is the fancy for this 
variety confined only to those with the horny hand of industry, nor to those who habitually live 
upon the house-tops, and pfey upon the ‘ waifs or strays’ of the locality. Many, perhaps most of 
our best fanciers, have had the flying ‘ mania ’ ere they settled down to the more sober and less 
dangerous fancy of raising birds for the show-pen. With the flying fraternity, indeed, it is only 
just to say, there is no special inducement to keep their stocks year after year, beyond a real love of 
them; no silver cups, no money prizes, no record of victories won, and but very few congratu- 
lations for sacrifices made in raising to perfection the most perfect collections of these birds. The 
hobby is purely and simply prompted by a genuine fancy for the birds themselves, and a delight 
to witness their eccentric acrobatic movements when on the wing. By a study of these inexpensive 
birds the best rudimentary lessons are taught, and one can practice with them- without the fear of 
extensive loss. The little bud of a juvenile fancier first bursts forth with, probably, a speculation 
to the extent of two shillings and sixpence, and Tumblers are generally the chosen ones, suiting 
the funds and the tastes also at the same time. With them and others added (as circumstances 
permit) the knowledge of pigeonology is gradually acquired, and I know of no fancier, to whatever 
height he may have attained as an authority on pigeons, who would willingly turn round upon his 
first pets, or utter an unkind word concerning the birds which formerly have afforded so much 
pleasure, even though they arc designated Common Tumblers. 
“ As I have stated, the varieties of Flying Tumblers are almost innumerable, but the most 
important may be reckoned at about thirty recognised sorts, colour and markings constituting the 
chief differences amongst them. The whole family may be divided into two sections, viz., those 
with dark flights, or wing primaries, and those with white wings, or primary quills. Of the former 
kind there arc seventeen varieties ; five of these are whole colours, viz. : — Blacks, Reds, Blues 
(with black bars), Silvers (dark bars), and Yellows, pure, rich, and uniform ; all which should 
be sound and good in colour, and have pearl eyes. Then follow Rosezvings, in Black, Red, and 
Yellow. These should have from six to twelve white feathers upon each shoulder, arranged at 
equal distances within a circular form, both sides alike ; all else black or coloured : intensity of 
black, and purity and richness of colour, are essential points. Next come Mottles , Black, Red, 
