ANBC Judges Coordinator Report August 2026

Hi All,

Welcome to the Judges Coordinator Report for August 2026. Some of you may already be well into the breeding season, while others are only just getting started. As breeders, we are always thinking about how we can improve our show team, or at the very least maintain the positive features that already exist within our studs. When considering what traits need improvement, it is important to ask ourselves what value those improvements will add to the overall quality of the bird.

One feature that deserves particular attention is shoulder strength. Strong shoulders are critical for many reasons. Even a bird that fills the show cage can still display poor body shape if it lacks shoulder width. Such birds often appear narrow or pencil-like in appearance, which detracts from their overall balance and presentation.

The shoulder of a budgerigar is essentially the distance between the wing butts. This framework provides the support necessary for the head, back skull, and mask to develop and be displayed to their full potential.

A lack of shoulder can have a significant impact on these important features. A common example is a bird that appears to have good depth and width of mask, yet the mask creases or folds through the centre. In many cases, this is an indication that the bird lacks sufficient shoulder strength to properly support those features.

Strong shoulders contribute greatly to the overall balance, presence, and visual appeal of the bird. When an exhibit combines shoulder strength with broad and deep back skull, a wide and deep mask, a strong face, and good mask and spots, you are looking at the makings of a very good budgerigar.

As breeders, we should always remember that no feature stands alone. The best exhibition budgerigars are those where all the desirable characteristics work together in balance and harmony.

Shoulder strength is one of the foundations that help make this possible.

Regards,

James Bader
ANBC Judges Co-Ordinator