Dewlap (pigeon)

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Dewlap
Nouvel atlas colombophile - P02 Beyrouth.jpg
Conservation statusRare
Other namesSyrian Dewlap
Country of originMiddle East
Classification
Australian Breed Group Group 4 Syrian Dewlap
US Breed Group Syrian
EE Breed Group Utility
Notes
A breed of antiquity, primarily known for the dewlap

The Dewlap is a breed of pigeon developed in antiquity through selective breeding, and, as with the other varieties of domesticated pigeons, is descended from the rock dove (Columba livia). Lyell believed they arrived from Asia Minor via China, and therefore named it the Chinese Dewlap. [1] Modern day writers also note that the breed originated in the Middle East. [2] It was imported into the United States by S.M. Shadeed of Jacksonville. N. C. [3]

Contents

Characteristics

The breed's name derives from the pronounced dewlap, or gullet, which is its most distinguishing mark. It is of medium size, weighing about 22 ounces. It is rather slender, yet with a wide breast, and stands more upright than horizontal. Most Dewlaps have from 7 to 10 white flights, fitting tightly to the body, and lying upon the tail. Three variants exist. The Earring, the Frilled, and the Reehani. The Frilled (mfattel), have curly feathers, similar to those of Frillbacks. [3] The Earring have white patches on their neck, resembling earrings. And the Reehani is an auto-sexing type similar to the Texan Pioneer, in which the males are always paler colored than the females.

Colors

[4]

Status

The breed remains rare in the United States, but is supported by the Rare Breeds Pigeon Club. [5]

See also

References

  1. Lyle, James C. (1987). Fancy Pigeons. 3rd Ed. p. 12.
  2. OTRAKJI, CHRISTIAN L (December 1995). "The Dewlap". Pigeon Fancier. V3 (I12). Gardner Publications: 28–29.
  3. 1 2 Macklin (April 1956). "The Pigeons of Syria". American Pigeon Journal . 45 (4): 98–99.
  4. Various (2000). Encyclopedia of Pigeon Standards. National Pigeon Association.
  5. "Rare Breeds Pigeon Club". rarepigeons.net. Retrieved December 17, 2025.