Pigeon Breed · India
Fantail
An ornamental breed whose 30–40 tail feathers fan upright like a peacock's.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Fantail is an ornamental pigeon with a fan of 30 to 40 tail feathers held erect, carried with the chest puffed and head tucked back. It struts and is kept purely for show and its decorative shape.
Fantail: At a Glance
| Origin | India |
|---|---|
| Size | Small (~300 g) |
| Size & weight | Small (~300 g) |
| Lifespan | 6–15 years with good care |
| Plumage | Large fanned tail of 30–40 feathers; upright posture; many colours |
| Temperament | Showy, gentle, strutting |
| Kept for / suits | Aviary and exhibition keepers with secure, clean lofts |
History & Origins
Originating in India, the Fantail is one of the oldest ornamental pigeon breeds and a favourite at shows. The large fanned tail and upright posture are entirely human-selected. The exaggerated tail can make flight and balance harder, so Fantails are aviary and show birds rather than free-flyers.
Fantail Fun Facts
- A Fantail's tail can have 30 to 40 feathers, versus 12–14 in most pigeons.
- They strut with the chest out and head tucked back over the tail.
- Charles Darwin kept and studied fancy pigeons including Fantails.
- The big tail makes strong flight difficult, so they are show birds.
Fantail Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Canker (trichomoniasis)
A common protozoan infection causing yellow cheesy growths in the mouth and throat, difficulty swallowing and weight loss, especially in young birds.
Care: An avian vet diagnoses and treats it with anti-protozoal medication; clean water and good loft hygiene reduce spread.
Coccidiosis
An intestinal parasite causing diarrhoea, weakness and poor condition, particularly in young or stressed birds.
Care: Good loft hygiene and dry housing prevent it; a vet can prescribe treatment when birds are affected.
Pigeon pox
A viral disease causing wart-like scabs on the unfeathered skin and sometimes lesions in the mouth, often spread by mosquitoes.
Care: Vaccination and mosquito control help prevent it; most birds recover with supportive care from an avian vet.
Pigeons are loyal, intelligent birds
Domestic pigeons bond closely with their keepers and navigate astonishing distances home. They need a clean, secure loft, company, and protection from predators and disease — and rescued ex-racing and 'release' birds often need homes.
