Pierrot Clowns

Pierrot clowns are close relatives to mimes, and to inexperienced breeders and caretakers the two can appear very similar; the difference is, of course, that pierrot are much smaller (averaging downwards of 1-2 feet tall) and capable of vocalizations in the form of honking, though usually in response to excessive hunger or alarm. Well-enriched pierrots may also honk with delight.

Breeders often rely on color when identifying a pierrot's breed. Purebred pierrots will be monochrome (do not mistake pierrots with jollies, colorless baby clowns), with minimalistic patterns on the face and lips (ex. a dot, heart, or star beneath one eye, or light blush) and black caps covering their heads.

Peirrots' caps are commonly mistaken as accessories, when really they are part of a pierrot's body and essential to its survival. Pierrot clowns are coldblooded, see, and the dark color and enamel-like surface of their caps draws in much-needed heat. Historically, owners found these caps ugly and chose to trim back or remove them entirely, often to the detriment of the pierrot. The harmful nature of this procedure is heavily frowned upon in the clown community and rarely occurs nowadays. Still, the effects of irresponsible attempts to breed it away are all too common, recognizable by tiny or altogether missing caps. Information on caring for a capless pierrot can be found under the health section.

## Diet

Pierrot clowns (especially purebred) are notoriously refined eaters. They prefer sweet but delicate foods such as choice brands of cotton candy (candee fluff is horrendous), whipped cream, caramel corn (in moderation), sliced fruit or fruit cups, and skittles. Sometimes cheese, so long as it's swiss. Feeding your pierrot meat is heavily inadvisable, as they resent the taste and ingesting large amounts can make them sick. It’s also advised not to feed your Pierrot carbonated or highly processed beverages such as sodas.

## Housing

Pierrots, as any clown breed, need alot of living space. They are an inside clown though, so don't only keep them outside (it would distress them). They also need to be able to watch French black and white cinema so make sure you have those avilable for them. Having a gramophone at hand is reccomended although it's not compleatly mandatory (a regular vinyl player works too). Pierrots also prefer monochrome living spaces but will prosper even in spaces with alot of different, vibrant colours.

## Social Behavior

Pierrot clowns are delicate and sensitive, preferring calmly stimulating low-risk play over slapstick comedy and general performance. Social enrichment should ideally be with fellow pierrot, mimes, or harlequin. They should be kept away from scare and party clowns at all costs, as sudden loud noises frighten and overwhelm them regardless of friendly intentions.

## Health

As stated above, caps are essential to a pierrot's wellbeing. To accomodate a capless pierrot, consider investing in a space heater or prosthetic cap. Alternatively you can sew your own cap at home (though undignified, the top of a sock will do in a pinch)

## Breeds

Pierrot clowns are perhaps the most commonly cross-bred breed. Their small size and delicate temperament combined with the friendly and jovial traits of other breeds make common mixes highly sought after for beginners and uncommon mixes a fun challenge for experienced owners.