Teddy

The Teddy Pigeon is one of the most prestigious and high-performing strains of Pakistani high-flyer pigeons. Renowned for their incredible endurance and distinctive white eyes, they are a staple in competitive "Pigeon Bazi" (pigeon flying) across South Asia and the Middle East. 

1. Origin and History

The Teddy strain originated in the city of Kasur (Qasoor), Pakistan, during the early 1960s (approximately 1963–1964).
 

The Founders: The breed was developed by Mistri Abdul Rasheed and his brother Mistri Deen. They are widely regarded as the architects of the modern Teddy pigeon.
 

The Bloodline: The strain was initially created by crossing a "Jonsiri" female (known for her specific feather patterns) with a "Missa" male.
 

• The Name: There are two common explanations for the name "Teddy":
  • The Physical Look: Some fanciers suggest the name comes from their "teddy bear-like" fluffy appearance and small, compact size.
  • The Era: Others believe it was named after the "Teddy" fashion or cultural trend popular in that era, signifying something new and stylish.

2. Key Physical Features

Teddy pigeons are easily identified by several specific morphological traits that distinguish them from other Pakistani breeds like the Kamagar or Sialkoti.

• The Eyes (The "Identity Card"): The most defining feature is their white or creamy-white eyes. Unlike Kasuri pigeons, which typically have reddish or orange eyes, a pure Teddy must have a clear, pale eye. Fanciers look for a "silvering" effect in the iris, which is believed to indicate superior intelligence and navigation.
• Beak and Nails: They generally possess a black or dark-colored beak and matching dark nails, which is a trait inherited from the Missa/Jonsiri ancestry.
• Body Structure: They are relatively small to medium-sized with a spindle-shaped, aerodynamic body. Their feathers are often described as silky and "oily," which helps them resist wind and heat during long flights.
• Common Color Variations:
  • Jonsiray Teddy: White body with blackish/greyish feathers around the neck.
  • Salaray Teddy: Distinguished by black primary feathers on the wings.
  • Kalsiray / Kaldumma: Black head or neck (Kalsira) or a black tail (Kaldumma).

3. Performance and Flying Distinctions

Teddy pigeons are bred primarily for endurance rather than speed or aesthetics.

• Flying Time: A pure-bred Teddy typically flies between 9 to 11 hours. However, when crossed with other high-flyer strains (like Ali Walay), they have been recorded flying for 12 to 15 hours in extreme temperatures (often exceeding 40°C).
• Altitude and Style: They are "Pinpoint" high-flyers, meaning they fly so high they become invisible to the naked eye (reaching the "dots" or "Zarra" stage). They are known for a calm, steady circling style rather than erratic maneuvers.
• Intelligence: They have a high "return rate." Even after flying for 12 hours in the heat, they possess the mental "mordant" (spirit) to navigate back to their home loft accurately.

4. Distinctions from Other Strains

Summary for Archivists

If you are organizing data for this strain, note that the "Kasur" bloodline is the most "pure" form. Many modern "Teddy" pigeons are actually crosses; for archival purposes, a "Pure Teddy" is defined by the clear white eye, dark beak, and Jonsiri/Missa ancestry established by the Mistry family.