The Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeon, also known as Aachener Lackschildmövchen in German, is a breed of fancy pigeon that has been developed through selective breeding over many years. This breed, along with other domesticated pigeon varieties, is descended from the rock dove (Columba livia). The Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeon is known for its striking appearance and unique feather patterns.
| Key Information | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Aachen, Germany |
| Size | Small |
| Wingspan | 45 centimeters |
| Body Length | 34-38 centimeters |
| Weight | 48-62 grams |
| Temperament | Calm and gentle |
| Color Variations | Black, red, yellow, silver, chocolate, pied, blue |
| Usage | Exhibition, ornamental, pets |
| Conservation status | Common |
Origin
The Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeon originated in Aachen, Germany. It is one of the oldest show pigeon breeds, with a history dating back to before 1765. The breed was developed through selective breeding over many years, with the goal of creating a pigeon with shield-like markings on its wings.
Breed Characteristics
The Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeon is a small-sized pigeon, with an average wingspan of 45 centimeters and a body length between 34 and 38 centimeters. They weigh approximately 48 to 62 grams when fully grown. This breed is known for its lustrous feathers, which have a glossy, lacquer-like sheen. The most distinctive feature of the Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeon is its shield-shaped markings on the wings, chest, and sometimes the head. They have a rounded body and head, with a short beak and smaller neck frills compared to other pigeon breeds.
Temperament
The Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeon is known for its calm and gentle temperament. They are well-behaved and enjoy being around humans. This breed is intelligent and easy to handle, making it a popular choice for exhibition purposes. They coexist well with other pigeons and are generally friendly towards other birds.
Preferred Living Conditions
Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeons are adaptable birds that can be kept in various housing setups. They can be housed in lofts, indoor cages, or outdoor aviaries. These pigeons are sedentary and usually do not undertake long-distance migration. They establish and maintain territories in their nesting sites or nearby areas. In urban areas, they often inhabit buildings, bridges, billboards, and other structures. In rural areas, they may inhabit cliffs, outcrops, or trees. They generally prefer secure and safe environments, away from predators.
Usage
The Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeon is primarily kept for exhibition purposes due to its striking appearance. Its unique feather patterns and shield-shaped markings make it a popular choice in pigeon shows and as an ornamental bird. This breed is also suitable for keeping as pets, as they have a good temperament and enjoy human company. Although the Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeon is common in Germany, it is considered rare in the United States and some other regions.
Interesting Facts:
- The Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl Pigeon has one of the most convoluted naming processes in pigeon breeds.
- It was first displayed in a pigeon show in 1894.
- The breed has been developed through selective breeding, crossing owl pigeon, movchen pigeon, and shield pigeon.
- Aachen Lacquer Shield Owl pigeons come in a variety of colors, including black, red, yellow, silver, chocolate, pied, and blue.
- They are intelligent birds that are easy to handle and have a gentle temperament.
