The Coucou des Flandres, Dutch: Vlaamse Koekoek, is an endangered Belgian breed of domestic chicken. It may have a common origin with the Malines from the area of Mechelen, in the province of Antwerp in Flanders, or may indeed represent the original type of that breed before it was cross-bred in the nineteenth century with various different types of imported Oriental chicken. By the time of the First World War it had disappeared; it was re-created in the years before the Second World War. It is critically endangered in Belgium, but more numerous in Picardy in France. It may also be known as the Poulet de Dendre, for the Dender river in its area of origin.
The Coucou des Flandres is primarily found in Belgium, particularly in Flanders, and also in the Picardy region of France. It thrives in temperate climates typical of northwestern Europe. The breed is well-suited to farm environments where it can roam freely, and is generally kept in rural settings.
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
The Coucou des Flandres is critically endangered in Belgium, but has seen some resurgence in Picardy, France. It is historically significant as it may represent the original type of the Malines breed prior to cross-breeding in the 19th century. Efforts to recreate and maintain the breed have been ongoing since before the Second World War.
Hens