We’re big on native birds this week with, on the cover, the wheatear: a superb lively chat which undertakes marathon migrations in the wild, but is quite happy in a spacious well-fitted aviary. We also learn about its gift for mimicry – and why its name is actually a bit rude! Across in the finch fancy, all-rounder Mark Jones coaches us in the football-like tactics of transfers and substitutions required for a good breeding season. Part 1 of a terrific budgie-zebbie double article introduces us to a dynamic partnership, and our regional round-ups take us to both the North-East and South-East. Lots of other regulars too – and an important heads-up for those who need to register their birds in Scotland.

We’re big on native birds this week with, on the cover, the wheatear: a superb lively chat which undertakes marathon migrations in the wild, but is quite happy in a spacious well-fitted aviary. We also learn about its gift for mimicry – and why its name....