*The Dovecote at Balleroy*
A dovecote is a compartmental structure, often raised on a pole, for housing domesticated pigeons. Built in the 17th century, the dovecote at Balleroy has two levels. The upper level housed the pigeons, and the lower level served as a shelter. Pigeons lay in pigeonholes, or boulins, which filled the walls. A hollow pole bisecting the center of the space had two arms connected to it

Outside the dovecote	"Boulins" or pigeonholes, fill the wall inside the dovecote.
The lower arm, an egg collecting device, connected to the pole at a downward angle. When an egg was laid, it would roll down the arm into the pole where it would be collected at the bottom of the pole. The arm could also swing around the space, as well as move up and down so that every pigeon hole was reached. The upper arm, perpendicular to the central pole, allowed people to access the birds as they lay in the pigeonhole. The outer walls were smooth to prevent animals from climbing up and attacking the pigeons.
*The Right of a Dovecote in Normandy*
In Normandy, owning a dovecote was a right that originated in the feudal period. Commoners where prohibited from ownership. The right was transferrable, however only one heir was allowed to receive it. This tradition was abolished by decree in 1790.