Faw pigeon draws national and international acclaim in competitive Erbil skies

ERBIL — A pigeon named after the southern Iraqi city of Faw is gaining national acclaim in Erbil, where enthusiasts have elevated it to the centerpiece of one of the country’s most competitive aerial sports.

Known as the “Faw pigeon,” the breed is celebrated for its stamina and aerial agility, capable of flying for hours without landing. Originating from the Faw district at the southern tip of Basra governorate, the bird has since gained popularity across Iraq and among diaspora breeders abroad.

In Erbil, it has become the focus of a quarterly contest known as “The General Bet for Faw Pigeon Breeders,” attracting participants from cities throughout Iraq and from Europe. The competition emphasizes stamina, flight form and technique, rather than distance.

“This pigeon came from Faw in southern Basra, and ever since, it has carried the name of the city,” said breeder Shirzad Ahmed. “I started raising many birds in 1978, and the most important has always been the Faw pigeon.”

Ahmed said the breed’s reputation has grown steadily, especially in Erbil. “It became known here as ‘Faw Erbil.’ During the season, especially in the General Bet competition, it becomes extremely popular across Iraq,” he said.

Unlike long-distance racing events, the Erbil contest requires the bird to remain aloft within the city’s airspace while demonstrating controlled flight. A judging panel monitors each pigeon, applying strict criteria.

“The bird must fly for a full continuous hour — if it doesn’t, it’s rejected,” said judge Rebaz Kawah. “It also has to complete 80 double-flight loops in the sky. If it can’t, it doesn’t qualify.”

Kawah added that a system of warnings and disqualification enforces discipline. “Three consecutive faults lead to a warning. On the fourth, the bird is disqualified,” he said. “We used to require a 90-minute flight in hot weather, but we’ve since adjusted the rules to improve the quality of competition.”

The contest also offers generous rewards. “The first-place winner earns 1.3 million dinars (about $915),” Kawah said. “There’s also a television, ten bags of feed, and nearly ten gold rings.”

With the 12th edition of the event scheduled to begin July 1, interest is rising. Prices for top-performing Faw pigeons in Erbil have reached as high as $5,000.

“This competition introduced bird lovers to the Faw pigeon’s unique qualities,” Ahmed said. “It raised its price to incredible levels. Now it’s one of the most sought-after birds.”