Imagine a giant DayGlo moorhen wandering freely around your house. That was all the rage in Ancient Rome, when the imperially plumaged purple gallinule was the pet of preference in posh villas! Expect more of the unexpected when you meet our cover bird this week. Just as bright if a bit smaller are our featured budgies (we ask: what’s your favourite colour?) and finches (knockout zebras from Portugal’s No. 1 breeder). Very much smaller are the gaudy mite that you really don’t want wandering freely in your setup: we explain how to keep them out. Plus: regional news and views, canaries of course, fabulous softbills and a chunk of old showtime. Enjoy.

Imagine a giant DayGlo moorhen wandering freely around your house. That was all the rage in Ancient Rome, when the imperially plumaged purple gallinule was the pet of preference in posh villas! Expect more of the unexpected when you meet our cover bird this week. Just as bright if a bit smaller are our featured budgies (we ask: what’s your favou....