Happy New Year! Our first cover bird of 2025 is the great tit, a familiar favourite especially with those who feed their garden birds. It’s a delightful softbill, yet is very rarely seen in aviculture. We explain why that is, and reveal numerous secrets from the life of this ace acrobat and vocalist. Staying with native birds, we hear from Mark Jones, son of the great Walter Jones who passed away in October, and whose career Mark relates in the first of two tribute articles. There’s a very strong show theme in the issue: Andy Johnson gives us his personal take on the Scottish National; budgie ace Sam Wildes finishes his tale of judging in Texas; and Fife legend David Shelbourne brings us up to date with his enviable career highlights. Oh, and there’s also an appraisal of the recent Newark sale – and plenty more.

Happy New Year! Our first cover bird of 2025 is the great tit, a familiar favourite especially with those who feed their garden birds. It’s a delightful softbill, yet is very rarely seen in aviculture. We explain why that is, and reveal numerous secrets from the life of this ace acrobat and vocalist. Staying with native birds, we hear from M....