What's in the issue

Cover bird this week is one with the wow factor in spades: the uber-exotic cock-of-the-rock. These Latin American beauties used to be found regularly in aviculture but trade restrictions have put paid to that. Bill Naylor does his best to bring these softbills and their incredible displays up close once again: birds whose life is structured wholly around their leks or display grounds, which are among the most spectacular sights the bird world can offer. Then, firmly back on home soil, we share insights into the marvellous if more familiar world of native hardbills. We learn our top priorities in the Border and Yorkshire canary birdrooms, find out all about skylights and how they can transform our birds’ lives, and consider the merits of colour-breeding zebbies in addition to our core mutations. Plus a thoughtful budgie overview and a comment on the ongoing NCA-DEFRA negotiations.