What's in the issue

This week we meet the massively impressive ground hornbills of Africa: two species that always pull the crowds at zoos or birdparks. We learn all about the lives of these strolling giants, notably the fact that unlike other hornbills the females don’t wall themselves up for the breeding season. That sounds smart… On DEFRA (inevitably), an interesting story of two enterprising fanciers who actually got noticed and listened to after an independent approach. Plus: a gorgeous new colour canary, advice on breeding, housing and feeding (mealworms), the tale of a first-ever falconry session - and 13 tips on how to start out birdkeeping from someone who’s done so successfully.