Fantail Pigeon

Looks how to spot one

feathers

A showy pigeon that carries its tail spread upright like a peacock's fan, with the head drawn back to rest near the base of the tail and the chest pushed forward. The tail holds far more feathers than an ordinary pigeon's. Silky or lace fantails have soft, loosely webbed feathers with a lacy look.12

Personality what they are like

A mild, easy-going pigeon that tends to settle down tamely with its keeper. It is more of a stroller than a flyer and happily stays close to the ground.2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Not a strong flyer; enjoys walking and short hops, so a loft or aviary with good floor space suits it.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Keep the loft clean and dry so the large tail stays in good condition; provide fresh water daily.23

Home where they are happiest

A dry, draught-free loft or aviary with room on the floor and low perches; because it flies poorly it does well in an enclosed setup.2

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Like other domestic pigeons, adults eat a mix of seeds and grains, with grit available.34

Company who they like around

A flock bird that lives happily with other pigeons; pairs share nest duties and care of the young.3

The story where it all began

The fantail is an old fancy breed whose exact birthplace is unclear, with South Asia, East Asia and Spain all proposed. It earned a place in science when Charles Darwin used it as an example of how much selective breeding can change a species in the first chapter of On the Origin of Species.1

Recognised by the official bits

Pigeon breed classifications

Classed as Group 1 in Australia, as a Fancy pigeon in the US and among structure pigeons in European (EE) grouping.1

Fancy (sub-breeds)

Several distinct forms are bred, including the English Fantail, the crested Indian Fantail, the Thai Fantail and the Miniature Fantail.1