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FOR SUCH A popular, dynamic branch of birdkeeping, the budgerigar fancy is generating a lot of heat these days. The main point at issue is the direction that the exhibition bird has taken in recent years. This debate is just as current in Australia as here, as we’re reminded this week by the eminent Australian birdman Don Burke, who argues powerfully for a return to the traditional beauties of the budgerigar (see page 14). I have read versions of Don’s arguments before, though rarely in such eloquent style. So what’s the “right line” on budgerigars? Personally, I believe that this town is big enough for all of us. The serious budgerigar fancy ought to have room to embrace a variety of interests, aspirations and, indeed, models. Those who are committed to the evolution of the modern exhibition budgerigar should be free to continue, while fanciers who favour a more traditional approach should enjoy parity. National budgerigar societies in the UK, Australia and elsewhere must grasp this nettle. They need to provide an official framework so that serious budgerigar fanciers of all interests can plan, breed and exhibit under their aegis. The alternative is a divided and weakened fancy. The reward would be a fresh sense of direction for all those who are serious about this magical little psittacine. Well, well... no sooner had I penned the above than my eye fell on the following statement: “The BS should be a broad church that embraces all varieties of budgerigar.” The speaker was none other than BS chairman Maurice Roberts. The context was miniature budgies (see News, page 2), which have just received a very public gesture of support from the influential trio of Messrs Findlay, Al-Nasser and Attwood, as well as Mr Roberts. A first sign of a sea-change, I would suggest. Have a great week with your birds, budgerigars or otherwise.