Old Dutch Capuchine Pigeon Breed Guide: Everything You Need to Know

With its distinct appearance, the old dutch capuchine pigeon breed has been a favorite among pigeon fanciers for many generations. The breed traces its origins back to Holland in the 17th century.

The birds’ cap-like head feathering, which inspired its name, is a distinguishing feature, giving them an elegant and unique appearance. Aside from their striking appearance, these pigeons are known for their active nature and ability to breed successfully in captivity.

Let’s walk you through everything you need about the Old Dutch Capuchine pigeon breed, including its history, characteristics, and care requirements.

Appearance and Physical Traits of Old Dutch Capuchine Pigeon

Old dutch capuchine pigeon is known for their unique physical characteristics. Here is a discussion of the appearance and physical traits of old dutch capuchine pigeons, emphasizing their unique feather features, color variations, and size and weight specifications.

Unique Physical Characteristics

Old dutch capuchine pigeons have a distinctive appearance distinguishing them from other pigeon breeds.

• They have a small, compact body with a straight back and slightly raised breast.
• Old dutch capuchine pigeons have a small, round head with a prominent forehead and a short, curved beak.
• They have a characteristic tuft of feathers on their head called a “capuche” that looks like a hood.
• The breed has a slight frill of feathers around its neck, making it appear to be wearing a collar.
• Their wings are long and pointed, and they are good fliers.

Feather Features and Color Variations

Old dutch capuchine pigeons come in various colors, and their feathers have many unique features.

• They have a tuft of feathers on their heads, a collar of feathers around their necks
• The feathers of old dutch capuchine pigeons are soft, silky, and compact.
• They have a variety of colors, including white, black, blue, red, yellow, and brown.
• Some old dutch capuchine pigeons have solid colors, while others have a mixture of two or more colors.
• The feathers of some old Dutch capuchine pigeons have a metallic or iridescent sheen, making them look shiny.

Size and Weight Specifications

The size and weight of old dutch capuchine pigeons differ between the male and female of the breed.

• Males of the breed weigh between 280-400 grams and measure around 23-26 centimeters in length.
• Females of the breed weigh between 200-320 grams and measure around 21-24 centimeters in length.

Personality and Temperament of Old Dutch Capuchine pigeon

Old Dutch Capuchine pigeons, also known simply as Capuchines, are a distinct breed of pigeons known for their unique appearance and calm temperament. Their personality and temperament traits generally include:

Behavioral Patterns and Characteristics

• The old dutch capuchine pigeon is naturally gentle, affectionate, and friendly.
• The birds are very intelligent and can quickly learn new things.
• They are quite active and love to fly, often soaring through the air with grace and precision.
• Their friendly demeanor makes them highly adaptable and easy to train.

Training and Taming Tips

• Early socialization will help tame these birds and make them more comfortable and friendly around people.
• Keeping the birds in a clean and spacious environment with adequate space to fly around and exercise is important.
• Positive reinforcement, such as rewards and treats, can also help with training and taming.

Social Behavior and Interaction

• Old dutch capuchine pigeons are known to be very social and prefer to live in flocks.
• They enjoy the company of other birds and will form strong bonds with their flock mates.
• Old dutch capuchine pigeons can also get along well with other pets in the household, provided they are properly socialized and introduced gradually.

Caring for Old Dutch Capuchine Pigeon

Old dutch capuchine pigeon is a unique breed of pigeon. As a pet owner of this charming bird, you must know how to provide your feathery friend with the best care possible.

Below, I will cover the essential aspects of caring for an old dutch capuchine pigeon, including feeding, housing, and health concerns. Let’s get started with basic care needs.

Basic Care Needs

Old dutch capuchine pigeon is relatively easy to care for, and their basic needs include the following:

• Provide clean and fresh water every day. Keep the water container off the floor to prevent contamination.
• Feed them 2-3 tablespoons of high-quality pigeon feed mix per bird every day. Ensure that the feed mix contains enough protein and vitamins suitable for their growth and development.
• Offer grit and oyster shells to help with digestion and supplement calcium.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables can be given as treats in moderation. Avoid feeding them avocado, onion, and chocolate, which can be toxic.
• Clean their cages or lofts every day. Change their bedding regularly to prevent the buildup of waste and bacteria.

Housing Requirements

Old dutch capuchine pigeon is hardy birds that can adapt to various weather conditions. However, their housing requirements should be considered to keep them healthy and comfortable.

• Provide a spacious, well-ventilated loft or cage safe from predators and other pets.
• Ensure that the temperature is regulated to keep them warm during winter and cool during summer. Provide a heat source in winter and an adequate ventilation system in summer.
• Also, allow natural light to enter the loft and provide shelter from direct sunlight to avoid overheating.

Health Concerns to Watch Out For and Prevention

Old dutch capuchine pigeon is generally healthy birds, but like any pet, they are at risk of certain health conditions. It is essential to watch out for signs of disease and take preventive measures to keep them healthy.

• Watch for signs of respiratory infections, such as wheezing, coughing, and nasal discharge. Keep their habitat clean and avoid overcrowding to prevent the spread of infection.
• Monitor their weight regularly and watch out for signs of malnutrition. Adjust their diet accordingly.
• Check for signs of lice, mites, or other parasites. Use pigeon-friendly products to prevent and treat infestations.
• Regularly take them for check-ups with an avian veterinarian to keep them healthy and prevent potential health issues.

Nutritional Requirement of Old Dutch Capuchine Pigeon

Meeting the nutritional requirements of Old Dutch Capuchine pigeons is essential for their health and well-being. Proper nutrition supports their growth, breeding, and overall vitality. Here are the key nutritional requirements for Old Dutch Capuchine pigeons:

Quality Pigeon Feed Mix

Provide a high-quality pigeon feed mix as the primary component of their diet. Pigeon mixes are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of pigeons and usually contain various seeds such as millet, wheat, corn, safflower, and sunflower seeds.

Supplementary Grains

Offer additional grains like oats, barley, and rice as a supplement to their regular diet for added variety and nutritional value.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Include fresh fruits and vegetables in their diet to provide essential vitamins and minerals. Capuchine pigeons enjoy fruits like apples, pears, grapes, and berries and vegetables like leafy greens, carrots, and peas.

Protein Sources

• Pigeons require protein for growth and reproduction. Provide protein-rich foods such as peas, lentils, and legumes.
• Some breeders also offer small insects or mealworms as occasional treats, especially during the breeding season when extra protein may be needed.

Calcium and Grit

• Ensure a source of calcium, such as crushed oyster shells or cuttlebone, is available to support eggshell formation and bone health.
• Pigeons also benefit from grit (small rocks or stones) to aid in digestion by grinding down food in their gizzard.

Clean Water

Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Pigeons need water for hydration and proper digestion.

Avoid Toxic Foods

Never feed Old Dutch Capuchine pigeons toxic or harmful foods like chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, or highly processed and salty items.

Feeding Schedule

Establish a regular feeding schedule to ensure consistent nutrition. Adjust the quantity of food provided based on their consumption to prevent wastage.

Monitor Body Condition

Regularly monitor the pigeons’ body condition to ensure they maintain a healthy weight. Adjust their diet if they become underweight or overweight.

Breeding Season Nutrition

During the breeding season, consider offering additional protein-rich foods to support the nutritional needs of breeding adults and growing chicks.

Can a Pigeon’s Breed Influence its Predisposition to Not Sitting on Eggs?

Possible reasons for pigeon not sitting on eggs may vary depending on its breed. Breeds like Homing Pigeons are known for their strong homing instinct and may prioritize flying rather than nesting. On the other hand, Fancy Pigeons may place more importance on their appearance, neglecting their eggs. Therefore, a pigeon’s breed could indeed influence its predisposition to not sitting on eggs.

Breeding And Genetics Old Dutch Capuchine Pigeons

If you’ve decided to breed old dutch capuchine pigeons, it’s essential to understand the breeding techniques for this breed.

Breeding Techniques

Here are some essential techniques to keep in mind when breeding old dutch capuchine pigeons:

• Select breeding pairs based on phenotype, health, and temperament.
• Control the breeding environment to ensure that the pigeons feel safe and secure.
• Allow the pair to establish a bond before attempting to breed.
• Provide ample nesting materials, such as hay or straw.
• Monitor nesting behavior closely; some pairs may require additional support or intervention.

Genetic Compatibility Requirements

It’s important to consider genetic compatibility to ensure successful breeding.

• Avoid breeding pairs that show signs of genetic defects or poor health.
• Select pairs with similar traits, such as feather color or size.
• Use a selective breeding program to target traits like feather shape or size.
• Monitor breeding pairs closely to ensure genetic issues don’t arise in subsequent generations.

Sexing and Egg-Laying Behavior

When breeding old dutch capuchine pigeons, it’s important to be familiar with their egg-laying behavior and sexing techniques.

• Generally, males will exhibit larger and more prominent wattles compared to females.
• Females will typically lay one or two eggs in a clutch.
• Monitor the nesting box closely and provide supplemental nesting materials as needed.
• Eggs will hatch approximately 17-20 days after being laid.

Conclusion

The old dutch capuchine pigeon breed is a fascinating bird with a rich history. Its unique appearance distinguishes it from other pigeon breeds, making it a popular choice for breeders and enthusiasts. Beyond its physical beauty, its gentle and calm demeanor endears it to many.

As with any breed, proper care and attention are essential to ensure their well-being, and engaging with other breeders and experts can offer valuable insights into the best practices. Whether you’re a seasoned breeder or a newbie, the old dutch capuchine pigeon breed is worth considering.

As you embark on this exciting journey, enjoy the process and take pride in each bird’s beauty and distinct personality. Embrace the challenges and joys of raising these magnificent creatures, and create a fulfilling and rewarding experience for you and your feathered friends.