| Unique Avian Solutions for Breeding, Genetics, and Companion Parrots |
| Speaker Presentations |
The following topics are personally presented by Linda S. Rubin as PowerPoint presentations to meetings and organizations. To
inquire about these programs, workshops, and other program possibilities - or to schedule a presentation - click on the Contact Us
tab below, or email Aves@CockatielsPlusParrots.com directly with your program choice(s), date, location and name of organization
or business.
inquire about these programs, workshops, and other program possibilities - or to schedule a presentation - click on the Contact Us
tab below, or email Aves@CockatielsPlusParrots.com directly with your program choice(s), date, location and name of organization
or business.
| THE ETHOLOGY OF AUSTRALIAN PARROT FLOCKS AND CAPTIVE BEHAVIORS |
Presented at the American Federation of Aviculture's 2011 conference in San Francisco and at the International
Association of Animal Behavior Consultants 2011 conference. After many years writing for Cage & Aviary Birds
(UK), Linda Rubin was invited as keynote speaker to the first International Cockatiel Symposium (Brisbane &
again in Sydney) and had the opportunity to journey into the Outback of St. George. There is much to be learned
about parrot behavior in captivity by learning about their behavior in the wild. Australian parrots, including
cockatiels and cockatoos, are some of the most popular species of parrots kept in homes. This presentation
will show the correlation between many of the flock behaviors observed during field research in Australia and
the behaviors of companion parrots we keep at home. Topics covered will include ultra-violet vision, sentinal
birds, vocalizations, night flights, foraging, and more. Inquire here ...
Association of Animal Behavior Consultants 2011 conference. After many years writing for Cage & Aviary Birds
(UK), Linda Rubin was invited as keynote speaker to the first International Cockatiel Symposium (Brisbane &
again in Sydney) and had the opportunity to journey into the Outback of St. George. There is much to be learned
about parrot behavior in captivity by learning about their behavior in the wild. Australian parrots, including
cockatiels and cockatoos, are some of the most popular species of parrots kept in homes. This presentation
will show the correlation between many of the flock behaviors observed during field research in Australia and
the behaviors of companion parrots we keep at home. Topics covered will include ultra-violet vision, sentinal
birds, vocalizations, night flights, foraging, and more. Inquire here ...
| COCKATIEL CULTURE: LIVING with COMPANION COCKATIELS - A through Z! |
Originally presented at the 2008 Canadian National Show in Toronto, Canada; enjoy a complete overview of
Cockatiel Culture and understand the decision-making criteria on whether to own, breed, or even exhibit
cockatiels. This is a program that truly examines the many dimensions of cockatiel ownership. Topics
include an overall discussion of Natural Characteristics, Normal Behavior, Interaction with Other Species,
Health Care, Diet & Nutrition, Housing & Toys, Daily Care & Maintenance, Supervision, Training & Exercise,
Egg-laying Behaviors in Pet Hens, Hobby Breeding (deliberate or accidental), the Breeding Cycle, Providing
Daily Companionship, and Long-term Commitment. Geared for both the novice and experienced owner with
natural history and Outback photos included! Inquire here ...
Cockatiel Culture and understand the decision-making criteria on whether to own, breed, or even exhibit
cockatiels. This is a program that truly examines the many dimensions of cockatiel ownership. Topics
include an overall discussion of Natural Characteristics, Normal Behavior, Interaction with Other Species,
Health Care, Diet & Nutrition, Housing & Toys, Daily Care & Maintenance, Supervision, Training & Exercise,
Egg-laying Behaviors in Pet Hens, Hobby Breeding (deliberate or accidental), the Breeding Cycle, Providing
Daily Companionship, and Long-term Commitment. Geared for both the novice and experienced owner with
natural history and Outback photos included! Inquire here ...
| NEW! EXPERIENCE THE FUN & ART OF EXHIBITING PARROTS ~ Help Your Parrot Look its Very Best! |
| COCKATIEL HUSBANDRY & HOBBY BREEDING |
Presented at the Canadian Parrot Symposium - East, and a popular program over the years, enjoyed by
many who breed cockatiels either as their specialty, or as an adjunct to support their favorite threatened or
endangered species. Cockatiels are the #1 pet bird in millions of US households. Yet after decades of
captive breeding, new challenges face today's aviculturist. This program shares research studies,
explaining the key elements to successful reproduction and husbandry management of America's most
popular avian species. Aviculturists have become accustomed to working with cockatiels in captivity for
many decades as their “bread and butter” birds, offering handfed tame babies, breeding pairs, the latest
mutations, and top exhibition stock for sale, all of which has led to an increased popularity of the species
over time. New breeding techniques learned over the years, to the dramatic appearance of fascinating new
color mutations has sparked a collective interest in both newcomers and seasoned breeders alike.
Husbandry techniques gathered from avian research studies have benefited cockatiel breeders by directly
improving their breeding studs or increasing their rate of reproduction. In addition, newer manufactured
products ranging from prepared handfeeding formulas suitable to the cockatiel’s sensitive digestive
system, to brooders and other equipment, have been of tremendous aid to breeding success. This
program is designed for all levels. Inquire here ...
many who breed cockatiels either as their specialty, or as an adjunct to support their favorite threatened or
endangered species. Cockatiels are the #1 pet bird in millions of US households. Yet after decades of
captive breeding, new challenges face today's aviculturist. This program shares research studies,
explaining the key elements to successful reproduction and husbandry management of America's most
popular avian species. Aviculturists have become accustomed to working with cockatiels in captivity for
many decades as their “bread and butter” birds, offering handfed tame babies, breeding pairs, the latest
mutations, and top exhibition stock for sale, all of which has led to an increased popularity of the species
over time. New breeding techniques learned over the years, to the dramatic appearance of fascinating new
color mutations has sparked a collective interest in both newcomers and seasoned breeders alike.
Husbandry techniques gathered from avian research studies have benefited cockatiel breeders by directly
improving their breeding studs or increasing their rate of reproduction. In addition, newer manufactured
products ranging from prepared handfeeding formulas suitable to the cockatiel’s sensitive digestive
system, to brooders and other equipment, have been of tremendous aid to breeding success. This
program is designed for all levels. Inquire here ...
Presented at many meetings and a popular program updated through the years, this sojourn into the
world of exhibition parrots, cockatiels, lovebirds and budgies examines both the science and art of
showing Psittacine birds. The origin of competitions, comparison of livestock, and positive benefits of
exhibiting are discussed as an art form to improving type, standards and improvement of future
generations. The science of exhibition is examined by looking at show standards that influence the
genetics and future of livestock and their genotypes. Practical information is presented on the show
training and grooming of birds, how to prepare for shows, and what it takes to make a champion or
grand-champion exhibit. From classifications, show mechanics, the judging process, and stewarding, to
filling out the entry forms and show tags, this program will make showing much more fun and easier to
understand. As a Certified Panel Judge for the Society of Parrot Breeders & Exhibitors, and the Cockatiel
Foundation (and a former NCS & NAPS Panel Judge), Linda has judged in the US, Puerto Rico and Canada
since 1984, has authored several show standards and can advise both novice and advanced exhibitors on
how they can improve their chances on the show bench, or just how to properly condition and prepare
your parrot to look its very best - and keep it looking that way! Inquire here ...
world of exhibition parrots, cockatiels, lovebirds and budgies examines both the science and art of
showing Psittacine birds. The origin of competitions, comparison of livestock, and positive benefits of
exhibiting are discussed as an art form to improving type, standards and improvement of future
generations. The science of exhibition is examined by looking at show standards that influence the
genetics and future of livestock and their genotypes. Practical information is presented on the show
training and grooming of birds, how to prepare for shows, and what it takes to make a champion or
grand-champion exhibit. From classifications, show mechanics, the judging process, and stewarding, to
filling out the entry forms and show tags, this program will make showing much more fun and easier to
understand. As a Certified Panel Judge for the Society of Parrot Breeders & Exhibitors, and the Cockatiel
Foundation (and a former NCS & NAPS Panel Judge), Linda has judged in the US, Puerto Rico and Canada
since 1984, has authored several show standards and can advise both novice and advanced exhibitors on
how they can improve their chances on the show bench, or just how to properly condition and prepare
your parrot to look its very best - and keep it looking that way! Inquire here ...
| CAPTIVATING COCKATIEL MUTATIONS - THE POPULAR, THE FANCY & THE RARE |
Presented at the Australian International Cockatiel Symposium in Brisbane and Sydney, Kaytee Great American
Bird Show, and many other venues, here is a fascinating look at the plethora of colorful hues, shades, patterns
and unusual combinations in the world of cockatiel color mutations ... Rare color mutations and their myriad
combinations are impacting cockatiel circles both on and off the show-bench at a challenging rate. The
formerly known "rares" of yesterday are increasingly spotted at bird fairs, inscribed in show classifications,
and rooted throughout classified advertisements, with a growing list of contemporary mutations that continue
to surprise. No longer are aviculturists confined to a mere handful of mutations. Cockatiels have arrived! A
delight to the eye, this program is designed for both the budding cockatiel enthusiast and the seasoned
breeder. It demystifies the topic of color breeding by explaining the properties of primary mutations, popular
crosses, and the rarer colors. Comments on modes of inheritance and how it reproduces, simple
explanations on how pigments work together, with tips on producing desirable color depth and markings for
each mutation. It touches on exhibition, foundation stock and gene pools. Both entertaining and a delight to
watch, by the end of the program - you will know your cockatiel mutations! Inquire here ...
Bird Show, and many other venues, here is a fascinating look at the plethora of colorful hues, shades, patterns
and unusual combinations in the world of cockatiel color mutations ... Rare color mutations and their myriad
combinations are impacting cockatiel circles both on and off the show-bench at a challenging rate. The
formerly known "rares" of yesterday are increasingly spotted at bird fairs, inscribed in show classifications,
and rooted throughout classified advertisements, with a growing list of contemporary mutations that continue
to surprise. No longer are aviculturists confined to a mere handful of mutations. Cockatiels have arrived! A
delight to the eye, this program is designed for both the budding cockatiel enthusiast and the seasoned
breeder. It demystifies the topic of color breeding by explaining the properties of primary mutations, popular
crosses, and the rarer colors. Comments on modes of inheritance and how it reproduces, simple
explanations on how pigments work together, with tips on producing desirable color depth and markings for
each mutation. It touches on exhibition, foundation stock and gene pools. Both entertaining and a delight to
watch, by the end of the program - you will know your cockatiel mutations! Inquire here ...
| LINE BREEDING SMALL HOOKBILLS for HEALTH, FERTILITY & LONGEVITY |
Presented at the American Federation of Aviculture convention in St. Louis, this pioneering, forward-
thinking discussion will focus on the dynamics of responsible livestock husbandry practices that deal
with genetic issues affecting health, fertility, parenting, and longevity. Topics include such questions
as, “Is a bigger bird necessarily a better bird?” “How are we ‘setting’ inherent parenting skills and
how are we breeding fertility and desirable parenting skills out of our existing stock?” “Why are we
producing birds with shorter life spans and smaller clutches?” “Are we sacrificing too much in order
to produce more saleable offspring or top exhibition stock?” “What will happen to the reproductive
quality and longevity of future breeding stock? Whichever species the aviculturist may select as a
specialty, this discussion will focus a conscious awareness of working with basic genetic principles
that will enhance and safeguard the viability of the aviculturist’s breeding stock and its contribution (or
contamination), to the gene pool at large. This discussion brings a new focus to the genetic influences
affecting the flock whatever the aviculturist's goals, be it producing quality pets, future breeding stock,
or the establishment of high-quality exhibition stock. Inquire here ...
thinking discussion will focus on the dynamics of responsible livestock husbandry practices that deal
with genetic issues affecting health, fertility, parenting, and longevity. Topics include such questions
as, “Is a bigger bird necessarily a better bird?” “How are we ‘setting’ inherent parenting skills and
how are we breeding fertility and desirable parenting skills out of our existing stock?” “Why are we
producing birds with shorter life spans and smaller clutches?” “Are we sacrificing too much in order
to produce more saleable offspring or top exhibition stock?” “What will happen to the reproductive
quality and longevity of future breeding stock? Whichever species the aviculturist may select as a
specialty, this discussion will focus a conscious awareness of working with basic genetic principles
that will enhance and safeguard the viability of the aviculturist’s breeding stock and its contribution (or
contamination), to the gene pool at large. This discussion brings a new focus to the genetic influences
affecting the flock whatever the aviculturist's goals, be it producing quality pets, future breeding stock,
or the establishment of high-quality exhibition stock. Inquire here ...
| ADVENTURE into the AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK! |
Presented at a number of meetings, this fun, entertaining, and gorgeous slide presentation tracing the
trip into the Outback of St. George in Queensland during a speaking tour in Brisbane, Sydney and
Victoria, Australia. Stories and encounters range from tracking various species of parrots in the wild,
including a flock of Leadbeater's cockatoos to red-tailed black cockatoos, to flocks of cockatiels feeding
in the soghrum fields - and everything inbetween! Journey down the paddock fields, to the irrigated
river where rosebreasted cockatoos, red-rumps and cockatiels colony breed in gum trees - to emus
strutting across the landscape to greet us as curious about us, as we are of them. Kangaroos,
wallabees, Tasmanian devils, lemurs and duck-billed platypus, are a few that round out the wilder side.
Visitations to Australian aviaries and the coveted Australian platinum cockatiel mutation - unavailable in
America - finish the sojourn into "Oz." Inquire here ...
trip into the Outback of St. George in Queensland during a speaking tour in Brisbane, Sydney and
Victoria, Australia. Stories and encounters range from tracking various species of parrots in the wild,
including a flock of Leadbeater's cockatoos to red-tailed black cockatoos, to flocks of cockatiels feeding
in the soghrum fields - and everything inbetween! Journey down the paddock fields, to the irrigated
river where rosebreasted cockatoos, red-rumps and cockatiels colony breed in gum trees - to emus
strutting across the landscape to greet us as curious about us, as we are of them. Kangaroos,
wallabees, Tasmanian devils, lemurs and duck-billed platypus, are a few that round out the wilder side.
Visitations to Australian aviaries and the coveted Australian platinum cockatiel mutation - unavailable in
America - finish the sojourn into "Oz." Inquire here ...
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| Copyright © Linda S. Rubin | CockatielsPlusParrots.com |
| NEW! HELP! MY COCKATIELS ARE LAYING EGGS! |
You own at least one cockatiel hen. The question is not, whether she will lay eggs, but rather, when. So
many cockatiel owners face the problem of finding a pet hen, or pairs, laying eggs and not knowing how to
handle the situation. Chronic egg laying can produce life-threatening or long-term health issues that can
shorten a female cockatiel's lifespan. Learn the triggers of egg-laying in cockatiels, and how to reverse a
new or chronic process, in order to avoid extreme interventions such as hormonal or surgical solutions.
Includes help on accidental and unexpected hobby breeding, including providing a nest box, proper
nutrition, caring for eggs, what to do when chicks hatch, and other helpful information and options. Inquire
here ...
many cockatiel owners face the problem of finding a pet hen, or pairs, laying eggs and not knowing how to
handle the situation. Chronic egg laying can produce life-threatening or long-term health issues that can
shorten a female cockatiel's lifespan. Learn the triggers of egg-laying in cockatiels, and how to reverse a
new or chronic process, in order to avoid extreme interventions such as hormonal or surgical solutions.
Includes help on accidental and unexpected hobby breeding, including providing a nest box, proper
nutrition, caring for eggs, what to do when chicks hatch, and other helpful information and options. Inquire
here ...
| NEW! GENDER IDENTIFICATION AND COCKATIEL COLOR MUTATIONS |
What sex is my cockatiel? What color is it? How do I know? Puzzled how to tell the difference between the
sexes of your pet cockatiel ... or many? Are there outward signs like markings, or is it behavior, or both?
Learn the very subtle, and not-so-subtle differences between male and female cockatiel behavior so that
you can identify whether your "Joey" is a "Jo Jo" once and for all. Learn the outward markings and
coloration of the primary color mutations that will teach you which colors are sexually dimorphic, and help
you to identify the gender of your bird. Also a great beginner class for anyone just wanting to learn how to
identify the sex and color of the basic mutations for hobby breeding. Inquire here
sexes of your pet cockatiel ... or many? Are there outward signs like markings, or is it behavior, or both?
Learn the very subtle, and not-so-subtle differences between male and female cockatiel behavior so that
you can identify whether your "Joey" is a "Jo Jo" once and for all. Learn the outward markings and
coloration of the primary color mutations that will teach you which colors are sexually dimorphic, and help
you to identify the gender of your bird. Also a great beginner class for anyone just wanting to learn how to
identify the sex and color of the basic mutations for hobby breeding. Inquire here
| Back by Popular Demand ... THE COCKATIEL GENETICS WORKSHOPTM |
Presented at a number of shows, events and private meetings, this original Workshop is a unique
one-of-a-kind teaching tool that will enable you to learn all you need to work out your own cockatiel
pairings. No knowledge assumed other than being able to identify the primary mutations (e.g., Lutino,
Pearl, Cinnamon, Pied, Whiteface, Silver, Fallow, etc.). Learn from the beginning in a relaxed, step by
step method that is much easier than complex Punnett Squares. The workshop teaches how to
progress from very simple pairings to more complex combinations including cross mutations and
multiple mutations. Learn the inheritance mode of all the colors, both popular and rare, so you can
easily calculate your own crosses without assistance - at any time! Includes information on crossover
(recombinant genetics) to cover those unexpected surprises in the nest! Personally taught by Linda S.
Rubin of Aves Communications, this popular workshop was first taught during the 1980's and was the
basis for Linda's first workbook, Cockatiel Genetics Made Easy. Inquire here ...
one-of-a-kind teaching tool that will enable you to learn all you need to work out your own cockatiel
pairings. No knowledge assumed other than being able to identify the primary mutations (e.g., Lutino,
Pearl, Cinnamon, Pied, Whiteface, Silver, Fallow, etc.). Learn from the beginning in a relaxed, step by
step method that is much easier than complex Punnett Squares. The workshop teaches how to
progress from very simple pairings to more complex combinations including cross mutations and
multiple mutations. Learn the inheritance mode of all the colors, both popular and rare, so you can
easily calculate your own crosses without assistance - at any time! Includes information on crossover
(recombinant genetics) to cover those unexpected surprises in the nest! Personally taught by Linda S.
Rubin of Aves Communications, this popular workshop was first taught during the 1980's and was the
basis for Linda's first workbook, Cockatiel Genetics Made Easy. Inquire here ...
Presented at the American Federation of Aviculture convention in San Francisco (2004), this program is a
complete introduction to the dynamics of livestock husbandry principles that focus on building viable, healthy
bloodlines of superior breeding stock while maintaining and improving bloodlines over time. It focuses on
linebreeding applications that include the setting of desirable traits, building family characteristics and
creating a quality breeding stud geared for the longterm. It is a linebreeding program on genetics without all
the complications of learning the language of genetics. It speaks to the aviculturist whose longterm objective
is to responsibly build a healthy robust stud, and maintain and improve it over time - whether the goal is for
improved husbandry breeding practices to produce healthy, superior breeding and pet stock – to peak
optimization of color mutations – or even to enhance exhibition lines. Topics include: examining the
differences between linebreeding and avoidable inbreeding, setting phenotypical (visual) traits and
genotypical traits (clutch size, fertility, etc.), discussing linebreeding techniques to build and fortify strains,
obtaining genetically desirable breeding stock, dispersing progeny to protect the gene pool, signs of
deterioration of the stud and preventive measurers, avoiding lethal factors (immune-compromised,
handicapped, dead-in-shell chicks), selective controls (limiting numbers produced, closed banding and
registration of stock), and the ethics of producing healthy breeding stock and quality companion parrots for
the future. Inquire here ...
complete introduction to the dynamics of livestock husbandry principles that focus on building viable, healthy
bloodlines of superior breeding stock while maintaining and improving bloodlines over time. It focuses on
linebreeding applications that include the setting of desirable traits, building family characteristics and
creating a quality breeding stud geared for the longterm. It is a linebreeding program on genetics without all
the complications of learning the language of genetics. It speaks to the aviculturist whose longterm objective
is to responsibly build a healthy robust stud, and maintain and improve it over time - whether the goal is for
improved husbandry breeding practices to produce healthy, superior breeding and pet stock – to peak
optimization of color mutations – or even to enhance exhibition lines. Topics include: examining the
differences between linebreeding and avoidable inbreeding, setting phenotypical (visual) traits and
genotypical traits (clutch size, fertility, etc.), discussing linebreeding techniques to build and fortify strains,
obtaining genetically desirable breeding stock, dispersing progeny to protect the gene pool, signs of
deterioration of the stud and preventive measurers, avoiding lethal factors (immune-compromised,
handicapped, dead-in-shell chicks), selective controls (limiting numbers produced, closed banding and
registration of stock), and the ethics of producing healthy breeding stock and quality companion parrots for
the future. Inquire here ...
| LINE BREEDING PRACTICES in PSITTACINE HUSBANDRY |
| NEW! SELECTING A PARROT PERFECT FOR YOU |
How do you know which parrot is right for you? Will your new parrot bond only to you or can it learn to be
social with other family members? Is your parrot a quiet or loud species? When does it vocalize and will
the neighbors complain? Learn the practical personality characteristics - both good and bad - of the more
popular and available parrots today so you may more easily find a parrot that matches your lifestyle. This
program also includes information on the proper housing, toys, and accessories you will need. Discusses
general care, health care and more practical issues of parrot ownership, touching on some aspects from
the author's book, Ultimate Parrot Guide, by Linda S. Rubin. Inquire here ...
social with other family members? Is your parrot a quiet or loud species? When does it vocalize and will
the neighbors complain? Learn the practical personality characteristics - both good and bad - of the more
popular and available parrots today so you may more easily find a parrot that matches your lifestyle. This
program also includes information on the proper housing, toys, and accessories you will need. Discusses
general care, health care and more practical issues of parrot ownership, touching on some aspects from
the author's book, Ultimate Parrot Guide, by Linda S. Rubin. Inquire here ...
| NEW! CARING FOR YOUR COMPANION BIRDS AND ADDING TO YOUR COLLECTION |
Do you already own a bird but you're thinking of adding another ... two, three, eight, more? Many bird
owners find their collections growing, from a few pets to more than they imagined. Which species are
compatible? Which are territorial? What dangers do you need to be aware of to maintain harmony in your
small flock? What foods are staples for the flock and what specific dietary needs exist for the species you
keep? Learn the safest way to add birds to your collection, from selecting a healthy bird, introducing new
birds, and the quarantine procedures to safeguard existing pets - to housing, hygiene, nutrition,
relationships with the flock, aging geriatrics, handicapped birds, and more. References topics from the
author's book, Multiple Bird Households, by Linda S. Rubin. Inquire here ...
owners find their collections growing, from a few pets to more than they imagined. Which species are
compatible? Which are territorial? What dangers do you need to be aware of to maintain harmony in your
small flock? What foods are staples for the flock and what specific dietary needs exist for the species you
keep? Learn the safest way to add birds to your collection, from selecting a healthy bird, introducing new
birds, and the quarantine procedures to safeguard existing pets - to housing, hygiene, nutrition,
relationships with the flock, aging geriatrics, handicapped birds, and more. References topics from the
author's book, Multiple Bird Households, by Linda S. Rubin. Inquire here ...
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