Wings of passion for budgie breeder

Meet John O’Brien, whose love for budgies started when he was in high school. Today he is a breeder, and a member of a budgie club in Shepparton.

“When I was younger, I was always intrigued with the different types and the colours that they can breed,” Mr O’Brien said.

“My favourite budgies are called cinnamon wings, which means rather than having black markings on their wings their markings are brown.

“In the wild you mainly see green ones though because hawks often pick out the coloured ones, but when it comes to breeding in the backyard, the process can be fascinating.”

Mr O’Brien, who joined the Goulburn Valley Budgerigar Society about 18 months ago, said the group covered a bit of everything.

“Everything from an interest in budgies to breeding and bird-keeping in general,” he said.

“Tips for first-timers, selecting a pair, mating and looking after baby chicks.

“It’s quite interesting and you can really learn a lot.”

The Goulburn Valley Budgerigar Society meets on the last Tuesday of each month at the Shepparton Showgrounds offices from 7.30pm.

“Budgies are living creatures that require dedicated care, attention and a suitable environment to thrive,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Understanding these fascinating facts about budgies can help you provide them with a fulfilling and enriching life as beloved pets or as breeding birds.

“There is a real social aspect to the club too, which makes it a lot of fun to attend.

“And we are always looking for new members.”

For more information on the society, call Richard on 0468 370 975.