What's in the issue

Elegant lilytrotters are on the cover, officially known as jacanas - and among the most recognisable waterbirds in the world. These species are a hit in collections, and it’s easy to see why: just check those toes! But while jacanas make water-walking look simple, their lifestyle is more complicated, and dominated the hens, which mate with several males and leave the upbringing to them. Elsewhere, it’s budgie time: colour budgies with Chris Smith, show birds with Rick Watts and colony breeders with Les Rance. We hear from the world of Lizard canaries, come up to date with Austin Middlemiss’s life with racing pigeons, and learn how every year brings something novel even for the most seasoned fancier. Then there are the native hybrids, the mixed collection… and, of course, news of DEFRA.