The Nikolajevski (Nicos) is a very interesting breed of pigeon that comes out of the south Ukraine region and Crimean Peninsula. There they are known by the name of "Tucheresi" or "Tucherez".

These birds first appeared in the City of Nikolayev in the last Century. Over a period of time the breed spread into the surrounding regions. This breed upon arriving here to North America were referred to as "Ukrainian SkyCutters" the term was misinterpreted because of the fact that there were three races of this breed: two Orlik varieties, the Ukrainian Shied Tumblers( Bokati) and a strain of the "White"(Originated from Byelorussia and Lithuania) Nikolajevski race. Much of what applies to the Nikos also applies to the orliks. The first Ariel standard was in place in 1872 at Nikolayev.

The Nikolajeski was gradually introduced into other portions of Western Russia during 19th Century with the emphasis placed on flying style. The term "Style Flier" is how the birds were evaluated because of the bird's flight and wing action.

Two main variations of flight are recognized amongst this class of breeds: "Serpasti" and "Torzovi".

The Torzovi type is considered to be of more rare because of the wing action, which is back to front. One will see these pigeons from loose kits at low altitudes come to a complete stand still in mid-air while the wings appear to be flashing. The birds are hanging in one spot. These birds then soar upwards without circling to an extreme altitude. Most good flyers require 20 to 30 minutes to reach disappearing heights.

The torzovi can cover this in a matter of minutes. These birds are capable of fast acceleration straight up as if they were climbing a ladder.

The "Serpasty" stile is those that maintain a more normal (front to back) wing action as seen in other races of high caliber flying pigeons. The wing action is graceful and light in its power and the birds will ride upon air thermals. There is no breed that is capable of matching the Tutcherezi class for high flying and endurance.