Bleeding-heart pigeons look well named! In the middle of their breast they have a red patch that’s easy to mistake for a wound. Actually, we explain, it’s used in their comical display dance. These exquisite doves combine beauty with rarity, which is why their presence in collections is important. We offer a thorough introduction to the superb Luzon bleeding-heart and also meet its rare relatives. Nearer home, we catch up with the fancy around North-East England and (down to earth a bit) hear how two of our writers made of the DEFRA registration experience. Regular writer Donald Skinner-Reid describes a bird-filled holiday and seasoned showman Adrian Shiels explains how to manage an event. Plus finches (British and foreign), budgies and much more.

Bleeding-heart pigeons look well named! In the middle of their breast they have a red patch that’s easy to mistake for a wound. Actually, we explain, it’s used in their comical display dance. These exquisite doves combine beauty with rarity, which is why their presence in collections is important. We offer a thorough introduction to the sup....