Judges Coordinator Report Nov 2026

Judging UBCs (Unbroken Caps) – Juvenile Budgerigars

Judging UBCs (Unbroken Caps), sometimes referred to as “broken nest feather,” is considerably different from judging Young Birds or Adults. UBCs present their own unique set of challenges, and Judges need to take these into consideration when assessing a class. A Young Bird or Adult has had time to mature and may also have received show cage training from the breeder. In the case of a UBC, neither of these things may have had time to occur.

Is the Exhibit Still a UBC?

One of the first considerations for the judge is whether the exhibit still qualifies as a UBC or whether it has broken its cap. Judges should refer to the Penalty & Disqualification clause of the ANBC Standard for guidance:

  1. Pin feathers in the cap, two or more; and/or
  2. Visible adult feathers in the cap, neck, body or wings; and/or
  3. An adult-coloured cere with a solid iris where present in the variety, such as Red Eyed Self or Spangle Double Factor; and/or
  4. An adult-coloured cere where no iris ring is present in the variety, such as Dark Eyed Clear or Recessive Pied.

Getting the UBC to Perch

A very young UBC may simply sit on the floor of the show cage and not move, or it may sit on the perch like a statue. Some UBCs can be quite stubborn about getting onto the perch, but as judges, we need to persist. The bird sitting on the floor could be a very good exhibit.

The reverse can also apply. A UBC may look outstanding while sitting on the cage floor, but once it is encouraged onto the perch, faults may become apparent that were not obvious before. This can significantly change where that exhibit realistically places within the class. Getting the UBC to perch is a must, as all exhibits being judged can only truly be judged if they are on the perch.

Even then, judges need to give the UBC time to relax and settle. Only then can we properly assess its qualities and compare it with the other exhibits in the class.

Patience Is Important

When you consider how many UBCs may be entered in a class, this can become quite challenging. The Judge needs to remain patient, maintain good judging technique, take the time to assess each exhibit and methodically work through the class.

Placings may also change more frequently than when judging Young Birds or Adults. UBCs can change their presentation considerably while the class is being judged, sometimes improving and sometimes going the other way. This means Judges should continue reviewing the exhibits as the class progresses rather than forming a final opinion too early.

Most Importantly

Judge the UBC on what you see today, at that show. Do not judge it on what you think it may develop into as a Young Bird or Adult.

Our responsibility is to assess the exhibit presented before us on the day.

Timing of UBC Judging

Where a show includes UBCs, Young Birds and Adults, it is good practice to judge the UBC classes early in the day. Judging the UBCs early gives the Judge the best opportunity to see each exhibit at its best. At a large UBC only show, this can be more challenging. Having sufficient judges available can help the classes progress efficiently while still allowing Judges the necessary time and patience to properly assess each exhibit.

Key Message

Be patient. Maintain good judging technique. Take the time to properly review every exhibit. Expect some UBCs to change for better or worse while you are judging the class, and above all, judge the bird on what it presents today, not what you believe it may become tomorrow.

Regards,
James Bader
ANBC Judges Co-Ordinator