The Chinese Owl is a breed of fancy pigeon developed over many years of selective breeding. The name "Chinese Owl" is a misnomer, as the breed did not originate in China. Its origin is uncertain, but it is speculated that they are probably descended from the Spanish Chorrera breed. Chinese Owls, as with all other varieties of domesticated pigeons, are descendants from the rock pigeon. The breed is known for its small size and profuse frilled feathers. Many specimens have a 'chin-crest' around the front of the neck that does not extend around to the back of the head. The feathers are more 'ruffled' and appear 'wind-swept' rather than 'curled,' as in the frill varieties. The breed comes in many colors: black, brown, blue/blue-grey, barred, ice, satinette, blondinette, white, and pied.