Bohemian Cropper
The Bohemian cropper is a Czech pigeon breed from the cropper or pouter group, developed in Bohemia from domestic rock pigeons selected for an inflated crop, upright bearing, and showy display. Like other croppers, it uses the expandable crop as part of courtship and stance; a healthy bird should be able to inflate, move, and feed normally. Details of size, markings, and accepted colors depend on the standard in use, but the breed is generally judged on crop shape, body balance, leg and neck proportions, feather condition, and confident carriage. It is an ornamental and exhibition breed rather than a racing or utility pigeon.
A roomy loft suits Bohemian croppers better than cramped cages, because they need space to display without damaging the crop or tail. Feed should keep them muscular but not heavy, and nest areas are easiest to manage when bowls are stable and protected from excitable display. Breeders pay attention to crop health, fertility, and parental ability, since exaggerated birds can sometimes be less efficient at feeding youngsters. Calm handling helps birds show their shape without becoming stressed.
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
