The Cauchois pigeon is a breed of fancy pigeon that originated in the Caux area of Normandy, France. It is an Old French breed that has been developed over several centuries through selective breeding. The Cauchois pigeon is known for its elegant appearance and is categorized as a utility pigeon. It is larger than the average pigeon but not as big as the Runt and not as heavy as the Gros Mondain. Cauchois pigeons are lively and weigh about 700 to 800 grams. They have a fairly long body with an upright posture and a full breast and body.
Origin
The Cauchois pigeon originated in the Caux area of Normandy, France. It has been developed over three centuries through selective breeding, including crosses with the Boulant and Mondain breeds. The breed was mentioned in Boileau’s Satires, published from 1666, and was commonly found in pigeon lofts of farms and large estates in the region. It was initially bred for the quality of its meat and is now also kept as a show bird and a pet.
Breed Characteristics
The Cauchois pigeon is larger than the average pigeon, but not as big as the Runt and not as heavy as the Gros Mondain. It has a fairly long body with an upright posture. The breed is known for its elegant appearance, with a full breast and body. The plumage of the Cauchois pigeon is dense and tight, and it comes in various colors and patterns. The most common patterns include chequered, laced, and barred. Colors range from blue-bronze, blue-rosa, and dilute blue-sulphur to red, yellow, black, and dun. The breed standard also requires the presence of a white bib marking called a ″bavette″ on the upper front part of the neck/breast, which resembles a half moon with the edges cut off. The bavette should be approximately 4 cm wide and end in an upward perk on either side, not wrapping around to the hind-part of the neck.
Temperament
The temperament of the Cauchois pigeon is not well-documented. However, like most pigeon breeds, they are generally calm and peaceful birds. They are known for their intelligence and ability to navigate and find their way back to their home loft. Cauchois pigeons are often kept for their beauty and as show birds rather than for their working abilities.
Preferred Living Conditions
Cauchois pigeons can be kept in a variety of living conditions, including pigeon lofts or aviaries. They are adapted to live in a wide range of climates and can tolerate both hot and cold weather. They require a clean and spacious living environment with access to fresh water and a balanced diet. Regular grooming, including bathing and feather maintenance, is also essential to keep the birds healthy and in good condition.
Usage
Cauchois pigeons are primarily bred for their beauty and as show birds. They are popular among pigeon fanciers and are often exhibited in pigeon shows and competitions. The breed’s elegant appearance and unique color patterns make them a favorite among pigeon enthusiasts. While they were originally bred for their meat, their use as a food source has diminished over time, and they are now primarily kept for their ornamental value. Cauchois pigeons can also be kept as pets and companions, as they are relatively docile and easy to care for.
Key Data
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Caux area of Normandy, France |
| Weight | Around 700-800 grams |
| Size | Larger than average pigeon, but not as big as the Runt or Gros Mondain |
| Plumage | Dense and tight, available in various colors and patterns |
| Temperament | Calm, peaceful, intelligent |
| Preferred Living Conditions | Clean and spacious living environment with access to fresh water |
| Usage | Show bird, ornamental pet |
Interesting Fact: The Cauchois pigeon is known for its unique bavette marking on the upper front part of the neck/breast, resembling a half moon with the edges cut off.
