Conservation of Species

With the growing awareness of the need for worldwide nature conservation, nothing less will satisfy. Bird keepers must become aviculturists in the true sense of the word. We can no longer afford consumers of nature. We must encourage our stock to engender its own replacements. This not only makes economical and ecological sense, it is also our moral and scientific duty. Remember that the continued existence of a species is assured if two offsprings survive their parents.

Birds in captivity do not breed to please us or to make a gesture to conservation. They are simply fulfilling a natural function, the multiplication of their genes. Thus, they satisfy an instinct which has developed and formulated millions of years ago to suit its particular environment. To persuade a bird to breed in an unnatural habitat as a cage or aviary requires a good knowledge of its biology, exemplary management and a carefully designed living space.

The philosophical viewpoint that birds (and indeed other creatures) are "better dead than bred" in captivity is still too prevalent. The techniques which have pioneered in avicultural circles may prove vital in supporting, and even saving, various species which are endangered in the wild. 'Me establishment of viable breeding groups of birds is vital in maintaining species which otherwise have a bleak future.

Increasing restrictions on the movement of birds for various reasons make it inevitable that other species will become unobtainable unless they are more intensively bred in captivity. Success has already been achieved in breeding birds that are seriously declining in numbers in their wild habitat.

The Maltese Bird Breeders Association's main objective is to encourage its members to breed these wonderful creatures. Being an active member of the World Ornitological Oraganisation for the conservation of Species and the World Organisation for ornitological research, valuable information is constantly being received about the most recent developments in breeding techniques.

Recent achievments by local fanciers is well beyond expectations encouraging one and all to indulge further in the hobby. Fortunately we have very favourable weather conditions. Pet outlets are constantly importing specials seeds, vitamins and accessories essential for proper management. By exchanging valuable information about breeding habits and behaviour of each species fanciers can assess better the essential requirements for most situations. Birds must never be shrugged off with an excuse like "Oh, they never breed!" It is up to the breeder to diagnose the flaws in his system and correct them. It is the best time to seek advice from experienced fanciers. Remember that no one is an island, and furthermore, many of your seemingly insurmountable problems have probably been solved many times before.

Donated by the Birds Breeders Association Club visit BBA club website