It's officially spring, and that means nesting time… so for our special issue we sample lots of different opinion and advice about how to create the best conditions for our birds. Starring role goes to the blackcap, a sweet-voiced native softbill which will joyfully fledge youngsters if managed rightly. We explain how. We have then-and-now perspectives on breeding management of canaries and zebra finches: in general, more challenging to breed than they used to be, yet with a much better cast of products to ensure success than in those easy old days. We look at what’s changed at breeding time at the zoo (answer: almost everything, and for the better). And we get a broad perspective on budgies and softbills, with plenty of housing and pairing tips. Plus lots more – it’s a busy 28 pages!

It's officially spring, and that means nesting time… so for our special issue we sample lots of different opinion and advice about how to create the best conditions for our birds. Starring role goes to the blackcap, a sweet-voiced native softbill which will joyfully fledge youngsters if managed rightly. We explain how. We have then-and-now ....