Empathy is just between people, right? No, says biologist Paul Donovan in this week’s cover story, mutual support, co-operation and even mourning are all found in birds. It’s not all about the selfish gene – science is finding there are all kinds of other ways birds put one another first, reveals Paul. On other pages we get up to date on the cream of gorgeous softbill breeding success, and are reminded what fun it can be to demolish an old aviary (and plan a new one). Also: conclusions on talking parrots, further hints on sexing Fifes, plus lots of regular features and some splendid show reports from what’s shaping up as another classic season.

Empathy is just between people, right? No, says biologist Paul Donovan in this week’s cover story, mutual support, co-operation and even mourning are all found in birds. It’s not all about the selfish gene – science is finding there are all kinds of other ways birds put one another first, reveals Paul. On other pages we get up to date on th....