It is not unusual for beginner and novice cockatiel breeders to misunderstand the topic of linebreeding and inbreeding. Often times I’m asked, “What is the closest a cockatiel could be related to another cockatiel without producing genetic defects or lethal factors? To answer that question we must first define inbreeding. Among the stricter proponents, |
| LINEBREEDING FOR IMPROVEMENT OF STOCK Copyright © 2006 Linda S. Rubin All Rights Reserved |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  |
| ORIGINAL BOOK REVIEW by Dr. Rainer R. Erhardt "Well, there is help on the horizon and anyone seriously interested in color genetics should take a look at Linda Rubin's book: COCKATIEL GENETICS MADE EASY! Though this book is primarily directed to breeders of cockatiel mutations, there is enough information in this volume to teach anyone the secrets of dealing with recessive, sex-linked, and dominant mutations..." ACBM, Vol. 65, No.12 CLICK TO READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW! 112 pages, 15 chapters, glossary & more! |
Copyright 2006 Linda S. Rubin
| LINEBREEDING FOR IMPROVEMENT OF STOCK ©2006 LINDA S. RUBIN www.CockatielsPlusParrots.com “All Rights Reserved” Continued ... Page 2 traits that affect conformation (e.g., size, shape, proportions, carriage, crest, etc.). Some faults can resurface due to incorrect pairing. For example, baldness in Lutino or Fallow lines will continue unless well-feathered partners are selected that lack any evidence of a bald spot for at least three generations in closely related ancestors. Color and markings are more subtle, but can be selected for in a solid, overall breeding plan. Faults Take, for example, correcting a bald spot in a Lutino line. Aviculturists can work with quality Normal Greys for improvement, however, any color mutation that is well-feathered behind the crest, whether Normal Grey, Cinnamon, Pearl, or others, can improve the line, providing their own ancestors lack the bald spot. Whenever attempting to eradicate baldness from a line of cockatiels, it is usually best to avoid inos (Lutino or Whiteface Lutino), split to ino, or Fallow, which also inherit and pass on the bald spot. It may take several generations to eliminate baldness behind the crest and careful record keeping is essential so that the aviculturist can safeguard against using birds that could allow the fault to reappear in future young. Linebreeding Once you have your initial foundation stock, or the outcross that you seek, you are set to embark upon a linebreeding program. There are many excellent books on livestock husbandry breeding techniques that may be applied to cockatiels. Those who wish to breed for exhibition and are beginning with foundation stock may decide to base their line upon their best cock bird, or on their best hen, whichever gender is the superior bird. There are a number of methods to accomplish this documented in other articles and books. Aviculturists vary in their goals for their own aviaries. While one may be working with existing strains where the goal is to improve a particular line, another may be working to reintroduce a lost trait, or perhaps introduce a new quality not yet set within a line. Carefully worked studs that have combined quality strains to form their own family lines become recognizable by their own unique combination of traits. For example, cockatiels that all carry exceptional size and straight backlines, “steamboat” crests, pronounced hawk-like brows on wide heads, with tremendous, circular orange cheek patches set on an extra deep, vivid yellow facial mask are identifiable as stock from a particular stud known for these combination of traits. Similarly, an aviary that produces extra-heavily washed, broad-headed, exceptionally large Pied cockatiels is also unique. Whichever method aviculturists opt to follow; one point we all share. We are responsible for the cockatiels we bring into this world; both the quality of birds we choose to produce, as well as the people and the homes they are destined for. Let’s make them good ones. |
