The French Sottobanca pigeon, known for its substantial size, robust build, and excellent breeding capabilities, is a breed that has evolved significantly over the years. Initially bred for utility purposes, particularly for meat production, the breed has also gained popularity in exhibitions due to its impressive physical attributes and adaptability to various environments.
Origins and History
The French Sottobanca pigeon is a breed that originated from Lombardy, Italy, and was later introduced to France in the early 20th century. The breed underwent separate development in France, leading to the establishment of a distinct variety or type. This development was influenced by the breed’s utility form, which was initially focused on meat production. Over time, selective breeding has emphasized the improvement of the breed’s exterior quality while maintaining its utility aspects.
The breed is a result of hybridization among several pigeon breeds, including the Romagnol, Bagadais, Bergamasque, and Triganino, with the aim of enhancing meat visuality and reproductive skills. This has resulted in a pigeon breed that is not only valued for its meat but also for its appearance and breeding efficiency.
Physical Characteristics
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large, with a strong and compact body |
| Weight | Approximately 800g to 1.1kg, varying between males and females |
| Color Varieties | Includes black, red, yellow (caldano), white over ice white, granite (magnano), and other colors |
| Head | Large with a well-shaped shell crest around the head |
| Eyes | Red-orange or yellow, with black in the white range |
| Neck, Breast, and Back | Large and well-developed |
| Legs | Short, naked, flesh-colored tarsus |
The French Sottobanca pigeon is recognized for its large but short and strongly built physique, with a slightly upright stance and an almost horizontal body underline. The breed’s head is notable for its size and the presence of a well-curved (arched) forehead, showcasing the characteristic shell crest to full advantage.
Behavior and Utility
The French Sottobanca pigeon is known for its high weight, excellent breeding capabilities, disease resistance, and very good adaptability to the environment. These qualities make the breed not only a valuable asset for meat production but also a favored choice for pigeon enthusiasts interested in breeding and exhibitions.
The breed’s adaptability allows it to thrive in various environments, from family farms to castle courtyards, demonstrating its versatility. Furthermore, the French Sottobanca pigeon’s reproductive skills are highly regarded, with the breed being capable of producing a significant number of offspring, thereby ensuring its utility in both meat production and the continuation of the breed.
Interesting Facts
- The French Sottobanca pigeon is a product of meticulous selective breeding aimed at enhancing both its utility and aesthetic qualities.
- Despite its initial focus on meat production, the breed has gained popularity in exhibitions due to its impressive physical attributes.
- The breed’s adaptability to different environments makes it a versatile choice for both utility and ornamental purposes.
