October 25 and 26 Visit the Villa de San Javier ornithology contest!

Over 1,000 caged birds compete on the basis of their plumage and posture in San Javier

The 31st annual “Concurso Ornitológico Villa de San Javier” is being held between October 22 and 26, with the first days reserved for competition and judging and the weekend providing an opportunity for members of the public to come along to the Parque Almansa building and admire the birds on show.

Over 1,000 entries have been received for the competition from all over the country, which will be judged on colour and (bizarrely for those of us who are not canary experts) posture. Included in the list is the returning red siskin (Spinus cucullatus), which is a native of Colombia and Venezuela but is now an endangered species, due in part to excessive capture for breeding in the past. The fact that this event is now in its 31st year shows that it is one of the longest-lasting and most prestigious in the country.

The show opens to the public on Saturday both morning and afternoon (9.00 to 20.00) and on Sunday from 9.00 to 14.00, when the prizes are to be awarded.

Anyone interested in learning more about budgie, canary and caged bird breeding is welcome to visit the local ornithological society on Sunday mornings from 10.00 to 12.00 at their premises on the roundabout outside the Tanatorio.

For more local information visit the tourist offices of San Javier or go to the home page of San Javier Today.