Judges Coordinator Report April 2026

Hi All,

I hope you’re well. You can feel the anticipation building around the shows as we move closer to the Trill™ Expert ANBC National Show in late May.

The Value of Good Deportment & Showmanship

From time to time, when judging and providing feedback, you may hear comments such as “lacked deportment,” “showed poorly,” or “no showmanship.” I’d like to offer some context around what these observations can mean.

Deportment Issues

Occasionally an exhibit may be a reasonable bird, yet it gives the impression of being short. In some cases, the issue isn’t the bird’s actual length—it’s that there is too much bird positioned behind the perch. The exhibit may be:

  • Squatting on the perch rather than standing correctly.
  • Not maintaining the ideal 30‑degree angle to the vertical.
  • Leaning over the perch instead of standing upright.

All of these behaviours contribute to poor deportment.

 

Showmanship & Flight Concerns

Another common issue involves birds that appear to have flight problems. Sometimes this is genuine, involving primary or secondary flight concerns. However, there are also cases where the bird is simply:

  • Lazy.
  • Nervous in the show cage.
  • Unfamiliar with the environment.

This is where terms like “poor shower” or “lacked showmanship” come into play. A bird may give the impression of having a wing issue when in fact it is simply unsettled or not presenting itself confidently. None of these observations are negative judging—they are simply part of the process and the reality of assessing Exhibition Budgerigars.

 

Food for Thought & Opportunities for Exhibitors

Some of the issues mentioned above are traits and can be inherited. Please keep this in mind when pairing birds and avoid doubling up on undesirable characteristics. Another valuable action is show cage training. Proper preparation can significantly reduce or eliminate problems related to poor deportment, nervousness, or lack of showmanship. A well‑trained bird is far more likely to present itself to its full potential.

 

Regards,
James Bader
ANBC Judges Co‑Ordinator

James Bader, ANBC Judges Coordinator