What's in the issue

We all know birds love seed-bearing plants, but did you know that plants with seeds love birds? Well, they ought to, because when a wild bird eats a fruit or berry, it usually deposits the seed elsewhere, and that’s called propagation. Good thing! And it’s similar with pollen: plants pull in birds (and bees) with sweet nectar so that they’ll transport pollen and fertilise other plants. This week we look at the science behind this web of relationships. A good read while your canaries are flicking their least favourite seeds out of the dish! Also this issue: more comment/advice on DEFRA, plus greenfood, zebbies and parsons in focus, escaping greenfinches, canary birdroom priorities - and a debut from Chris Smith, budgie columnist!