Time On The

Perch

 

With Robert Nawarauckas... 

 

What first got you started in breeding budgerigars?

Visiting a client during 1994, I was ushered towards his numerous flights of Budgerigars, Canaries and Finches. I was hooked and within a few weeks I had altered my large Garage to house the first of my purchases.     

Are you a member of the Budgerigar Society?

Yes, I joined in 1995. Ring number, RN1

Are you member of an Area Society if so which one?

I am a member of the Scottish Budgerigar Society.

Do you breed budgies for exhibition purposes or colour?

The only way of knowing if your birds are improving is to take to the show bench. It's always been a great day out and when I stop enjoying the event I'll know it's time to stay at home.  

How long have you been keeping budgies?

As I already stated, 1994 saw my introduction to the hobby. However due to work commitments during 2006 and a change of location of my employment the birds were sold. Showing then did not interest me, however taking early retirement in March 2000 saw me enter the hobby once again.  

Do you like most types and colours, or just one colour or variety?

I retain mainly Normal's and Spangles in Blue and Grey, my favourite colours. However there are perhaps no more than twenty Light and Grey Greens. However I will always keep a quality bird regardless of colour.  

If you breed budgies for exhibition purposes at which status do you exhibit?

2010 will be my third year showing as an Intermediate.

When did you first show your birds and at which show did you first exhibit?

My first venture on the show bench was during 2001 where I showed at Lanarkshire Central. I was very fortunate to win Best Beginner Any Age with a Double Factor Spangle. It was a bought bird from my friend Roy Wilson who was a great help in the early years. I would never show a bought bird now, but believe only juniors and Beginners should be allowed.

If you have never shown, is there a reason?

N/A

What goals and ambitions do you have for the 2010?

This year will be a quiet one on the show bench as I will be Captain of Stranraer Golf Club. My time showing will be very limited. However knowing that Champion status is only a short time away, I must continue to improve the overall quality and depth of my stock.   

In ten years, where do you see yourself and this hobby?

Hopefully still contented with breeding and enjoying the show season meeting friends old and new.

 

And lastly...

What's your biggest/best achievement in the hobby to date?

 

Without doubt, winning my very first Best in Show at Dumfries B.S. in 2008 was simply fantastic. Doing it again in 2009 was mind blowing.

The Sky Blue cock that won in 2008 has never filled an egg, frustrating!!!

 

Thank you for your time Robert, it's been a pleasure to have this time with you!

 

Rick

 

*If you would like to take part in 'Time on the Perch' then please email rick@watts-budgerigars.co.uk and you can be a feature and get yourself known!!*