38. Sex
a. Sex of the pigeon is difficult to determine without experience; however, some external characteristics help recognition. Under ordinary circumstances the cock usually has—
(1) Broader skull.
(2) Larger head.
(3) Larger bill and wattle.
(4) Stronger neck.
(5) Broader shoulders.
(6) Closer vent bones.
(7) Larger legs and feet.
b. In some cases, where the physical characteristics of the male and female are similar, it is often necessary to observe their actions when together to determine sex. Some of the common actions of the cock are:
(1) Chasing hen when cooing.
(2) Scraping of the tail when cooing.
(3) Pecking the head of the hen when she shows no desire to mate.
(4) Cock’s coo is deep and full, while hen’s is sharp.